An organism that makes its own food is called what?

• A. Decomposer
• B. Consumer
• C. Scavenger
• D. Producer

Answer: (D)

Making its own food means the organism can convert energy from an external source into organic matter, forming the base of the ecosystem. Organisms that do this are producers; they are autotrophs that use sunlight in photosynthesis or chemical energy in chemosynthesis to synthesize sugars. Plants, algae, and some bacteria are typical examples. This stored chemical energy then supports all other organisms up the food chain. In contrast, decomposers break down dead material, consumers eat other living organisms, and scavengers feed on already dead animals. So, the ability to make food from energy sources at hand is what defines a producer.