Which of the following organisms is incorrectly paired with its trophic level?
a. Cyanobacterium—primary producer
b. Grasshopper—primary consumer
c. Zooplankton—primary producer
d. Fungus—detritivore

Trophic levels refer to the hierarchical positions in a food chain, representing the flow of energy and nutrients. Primary producers, like plants and cyanobacteria, convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Primary consumers, such as grasshoppers, feed on primary producers, while detritivores, like fungi, decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Primary producers are organisms that produce biomass from inorganic compounds, primarily through photosynthesis. They form the base of the food chain, providing energy for all other trophic levels. Cyanobacteria are a type of primary producer, using sunlight to create energy-rich compounds, supporting various aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Detritivores are organisms that feed on dead organic matter, breaking it down into simpler substances. This process is crucial for nutrient cycling, as it returns essential elements to the soil and water, supporting primary producers. Fungi are common detritivores, decomposing complex organic materials and contributing to ecosystem sustainability.