Question

Dr. Hernandez is a biologist investigating the ecosystem of the lightning whelk, a sea snail found along the Atlantic coast. She collects data about the whelk and its relationship to other organisms in its ocean ecosystem. She records the data in the table.

Organism Energy Role Food Source
Whelk Second-level consumer Clams
Tiger shark Fourth-level consumer Loggerhead turtles
Phytoplankton Producer Photosynthesis
Loggerhead turtle Third-level consumer Whelks
Clam First-level consumer Phytoplankton

Based on the data in the table, how should she classify the whelk?
A. carnivore
B. herbivore
C. omnivore
D. scavenger

Answer 1

A. Carnivore

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the data in the table, the whelk is a second-level consumer that feeds on clams and does not have plant consumption in its diet. Therefore, the whelk should be classified as a carnivore, which is an animal that eats other animals. Option A is the correct answer.