Question

In an ecosystem, bacteria are considered as:

• A. Microconsumers
• B. Macroconsumers
• C. Primary consumers
• D. Secondary consumers

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Microconsumers

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

Option A:

1. Bacteria are organisms that fall under the trophic level of micro consumers.
2. Their major role is in cleaning the environment by feeding on dead and decaying organic matter.
3. Hence, they derive their nutrition from decomposing and digesting dead living organisms.
4. They are also helpful for the environment as they release nutrients into the environment.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B:

1. Macroconsumers are the organisms in the ecological pyramid referring to the secondary and tertiary consumers.
2. They are heterotrophs that depend on other consumers for deriving their nutrition.
3. They also include top-level carnivores.
4. In an ecosystem, bacteria are not considered macro consumers.
5. Eg, lions, cats, wolves, etc.

Option C:

1. Primary consumers are herbivores.
2. In the ecological pyramids these organisms depend on primary producers, i.e., on plants for deriving their nutritional requirements.
3. Eg, cow, sheep, goat, etc.
4. In an ecosystem, bacteria are not considered macro consumers.

Option D:

1. Secondary consumers in an ecological pyramid are organisms that feed on primary consumers.
2. They specifically derive their nutrition from the consumption of herbivores.
3. eg, spiders, snakes, etc.
4. In an ecosystem, bacteria are not considered macro consumers.

Final answer: In an ecosystem, bacteria are considered Microconsumers.