The second trophic level of an ecosystem is primarily occupied by herbivores. These organisms are known as primary consumers because they feed directly on producers, which are the plants and algae that make up the first trophic level.
Herbivores play a crucial role in the ecosystem by converting the energy stored in plants into a form that can be consumed by higher trophic levels, such as carnivores and omnivores. Examples of organisms in this group include rabbits, deer, and various insects that feed on plant material.
Understanding the second trophic level is essential for grasping how energy flows through an ecosystem and how different organisms interact within it. Herbivores not only help in transferring energy but also in controlling plant populations, thereby maintaining balance in their habitats.