Which term describes an organism that eats both plants and animals?

Which term describes an organism that eats both plants and animals?

• A. Consumer
• B. Herbivore
• C. Omnivore
• D. Detritivore

Answer: (C)

Eating both plants and animals is described by the term omnivore. An omnivore regularly consumes plant material and animal tissue, mixing both in its diet. This sets it apart from herbivores, which eat plants, and detritivores, which feed on decaying organic matter. While “consumer” is a broad label for organisms that eat others, it doesn’t specify having a mixed diet; omnivore specifically captures eating both plant and animal foods. Humans, bears, and pigs are classic examples.

Eating both plants and animals is described by the term omnivore. An omnivore regularly consumes plant material and animal tissue, mixing both in its diet. This sets it apart from herbivores, which eat plants, and detritivores, which feed on decaying organic matter. While “consumer” is a broad label for organisms that eat others, it doesn’t specify having a mixed diet; omnivore specifically captures eating both plant and animal foods. Humans, bears, and pigs are classic examples.