In a lake ecosystem, the primary consumers are ________.

The correct answer is zooplankton.

Key Points

• Although there may be some fish that consume phytoplanktons, the main consumers in a lake environment are zooplanktons. Zooplankton is thus the dominant second trophic level in a lake environment.
• The majority of zooplankton species are tiny, microscopic organisms. a single-celled protist that primarily consumes bacteria, for instance. Nonetheless, some zooplankton species can grow fairly large such as jellyfish, arrow worms, etc.
• They are the main consumers because they consume producers like phytoplankton, which are then consumed by small fish (secondary consumers).

Additional Information

•  Food Chain
  • A food chain demonstrates the relationship of feeding between several creatures in a specific habitat or ecosystem.
  • The energy flow from the sun to producers, from producers to consumers, and from consumers to decomposers like fungi is demonstrated by a food chain.
  • They also demonstrate how animals rely on other living things for nourishment.