Primary consumers in the tundra biome are organisms that eat primary producers, which are mainly plants like mosses and lichens. These consumers are typically herbivores such as caribou, arctic hares, and various small rodents.
In the harsh tundra environment, primary consumers play a critical role in the ecosystem. They rely on the limited food sources provided by the short growing season. For example, caribou migrate to find food during different seasons, while arctic hares have adaptations to survive with their diet of grasses and shrubs. Understanding the role of these primary consumers helps us appreciate the delicate balance within the tundra ecosystem.