what are 4 primary consumers of an aquatic ecosystem?
Four primary consumers of an aquatic ecosystem are:
1. Zooplankton: These are small, drifting organisms in the water, including tiny crustaceans, rotifers, and protozoans. They feed on algae, bacteria, and other smaller organisms.
2. Small fish: Various species of small fish, such as minnows or smelt, are primary consumers in aquatic ecosystems. They feed on zooplankton, smaller fish, and aquatic insects.
3. Shrimp: Shrimp are also primary consumers in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in marine environments. They feed on detritus, algae, plant matter, and small organisms.
4. Crabs: Crabs are scavengers and predators, consuming both plant and animal matter. They help maintain the ecosystem by cleaning up decaying material and controlling populations of other organisms such as mollusks and small fish.