In the Florida Everglades, two notable examples of primary consumers are the American alligator and the white-tailed deer.
The American alligator, while often considered a top predator, is also a primary consumer during its juvenile stage. Young alligators primarily feed on invertebrates and small fish, which makes them essential to the ecosystem as they help control the populations of these organisms.
On the other hand, the white-tailed deer is a classic example of a primary consumer, as it feeds on a variety of plant materials, including grasses, leaves, and fruits. They play a vital role in maintaining the vegetation balance in the Everglades, contributing to the health of the overall ecosystem.