Question

Earthworm is a:

• A. Herbivore
• B. Secondary consumer
• C. Tertiary consumer
• D. Detritivore

Answer 1

The correct option is D Detritivore

Detritivores are heterotrophs that obtain their nutrition by feeding on detritus. The detritus, they consume includes decomposing plant and animal parts, as well as fecal matter. These organisms play an important role in all ecosystems by getting rid of decaying organic matter left behind by other organisms. In food webs, detritivores commonly play the role of decomposers. There are many examples of detritivores; some of them include millipedes, dung beetles, earthworms, fiddler crabs, and sea cucumbers. Earthworms eat decaying plant and animal matter in the soil. The material, including some soil, enters the mouth, passes through the worm's digestive system, and exits the anus. By breaking down this matter and burrowing it through the soil, the earthworms improve the composition and aeration of the soil. This makes them a very crucial part of their ecosystem.

Hence, the correct answer is option D.