Chapter 2, Problem 21A

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

Autotrophs are the organisms which can make their food using sunlight, carbon dioxide and water. Examples are green plants and algae. In the given illustration, grass is the autotroph. The frog, fox and grasshopper are heterotrophs.

Answer to Problem 21A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (D) grass.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (D) grass. Grass is autotrophs because it makes food (carbohydrate) with the help of sunlight using carbon dioxide and water. The food synthesized by the grass is used by herbivores. Thus, the correct answer is an option (D).

The explanation for the incorrect answer :

Option (A) frog. In the given illustration frog is secondary consumer which feeds on primary consumer, the grasshopper which is herbivore. Thus, this is an incorrect option.

Option (B) grasshopper is a primary consumer which eats grass. Thus, this is an incorrect answer.

Option (C) fox. In the given illustration fox is top consumer or carnivore which feeds on the secondary consumers, frog and the chipmunk. Thus, this is an incorrect answer. Thus, this is an incorrect answer.