The correct option is A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
Explanation
In an ecosystem, organisms are classified into different trophic levels based on their source of nutrition. These roles include producers (autotrophs), consumers (heterotrophs), and decomposers (saprotrophs), which together form the structural basis of food chains and food webs.
Detailed Analysis:
- A. Grass (Producer): Grass is an autotroph capable of synthesizing its own food through photosynthesis using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. It occupies the first trophic level in a food chain.
- B. Vulture (Scavenger): Vultures are scavengers that feed on the carcasses of dead animals. Unlike predators, they do not hunt live prey but play a crucial role in cleaning the environment by consuming dead organic matter.
- C. Mushroom (Decomposer): Mushrooms are fungi that act as decomposers. They break down complex organic matter from dead plants and animals into simpler inorganic substances, recycling nutrients back into the soil.
- D. Tiger (Carnivore): Tigers are carnivores (secondary or tertiary consumers) that hunt and feed on other animals. They occupy a higher trophic level in the food chain.
Key Takeaway: Ecosystem stability relies on the interaction between producers (energy synthesis), consumers (energy transfer), scavengers (cleaning), and decomposers (nutrient recycling).