What is the term for animals that primarily feed on plants?

The term for animals that primarily feed on plants is "herbivorous." Herbivores are organisms that obtain their energy and nutrients by consuming plant material, which can include leaves, fruits, stems, and roots. This relationship is a crucial component of ecosystems, as herbivores often serve as primary consumers that transfer energy from producers (plants) to higher trophic levels, such as carnivores.

Understanding the ecological role of herbivores helps highlight the balance in food chains and the dependence of carnivorous animals on these plant-eating species for survival. Herbivores have specific adaptations, such as specialized teeth for grinding plant material and other digestive adaptations that allow them to break down tough plant fibers and extract necessary nutrients.

In contrast, carnivorous animals feed on other animals, omnivores consume both plant and animal matter, and oviparous refers to a mode of reproduction involving laying eggs. These terms relate to different aspects of animal biology and behavior and are not relevant to the classification of animals based on their primary food sources.