Exploring Ecosystem Roles: Producers, Consumers, and Decomposers

What unique ability do producers have?

• They recycle nutrients back into the soil.

• They decompose dead organic matter.

• They can convert sunlight into chemical energy.

• They can consume other organisms for energy.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Which process do producers use to make their own food?

• Decomposition

• Photosynthesis

• Digestion

• Respiration

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Which organisms are considered producers?

• Mushrooms and earthworms

• Carnivores and herbivores

• Plants, trees, and some bacteria

• Grasshoppers and polar bears

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Which of the following acts as a producer?

• Mushrooms

• Grasshoppers

• Polar bears

• Algae

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What type of consumer only eats plants?

• Carnivores

• Omnivores

• Herbivores

• Decomposers

Which of the following is NOT a type of consumer?

• Omnivores

• Carnivores

• Producers

• Herbivores

What do consumers need to do to gain energy?

• Perform photosynthesis

• Consume or eat other organisms

• Produce their own food

• Decompose organic matter

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

• They produce their own food.

• They consume other organisms for energy.

• They break down dead organic material.

• They convert sunlight into chemical energy.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Why are decomposers not always shown in food chains or webs?

• Because they are not important

• Because they do not consume other organisms

• Despite their critical role, they are often overlooked

• Because they do not produce their own food

What do decomposers return to the soil?

• Water

• Sunlight

• Nutrients

• Carbon dioxide

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3