In the food chain Algae→Mayflies→Stoneflies→Trout→Humans, which organism is the primary producer?

• A. Mayflies
• B. Algae
• C. Trout
• D. Humans

Answer: (B)

In the given food chain, algae serve as the primary producer. Primary producers are organisms that can produce their own food through processes such as photosynthesis. In aquatic ecosystems, algae play a crucial role by converting sunlight into energy, which forms the base of the food chain. They take in carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight to create organic matter, which serves as food for herbivores, such as mayflies in this chain.

The other organisms listed—mayflies, stoneflies, trout, and humans—are all consumers that rely on primary producers for energy. They feed on the organic matter created by algae and thus cannot be classified as primary producers themselves. This hierarchy illustrates the flow of energy within the ecosystem, starting with the producers and moving up to various levels of consumers.