Ecosystem Vocabulary

Word Definition Image

photosynthesis Photosynthesis is the process by 

which plants and other things make 
food.

chemosynthesis In biochemistry, chemosynthesis is 

the biological conversion of one or 
more carbon-containing molecules

producer An organism that serves as a source 

of food for other organisms in a food 
chain. 

consumer one that utilizes economic goods.

decomposer Decomposer are organisms that break 

down dead or decaying organisms, 
and in doing so, they carry out the 
natural process of decomposition.
carnivore A carnivore is an animal that gets 
food from killing and eating other 
animals.

herbivore A herbivore is an animal that gets its 

energy from eating plants, and only 
plants.

grazer Grazing is a method of feeding in 

which a herbivore feeds on plants 
such as grasses, or other multicellular 
organisms such as algae.

omnivore An omnivore is an animal that eats 

both plants and animals for their main 
food. 

predator A predator is an animal that eats other 

animals — or people or companies 
who act like they do.
prey Prey is an animal hunted for food. If 
you're a delicious-looking deer during 
hunting season, watch your back!

scavenger An animal, such as a vulture or 

housefly, that feeds on dead or 
decaying matter. One that scavenges, 
as a person who searches through 
refuse for useful items.