What term is used for a species or population that can produce its own food through photosynthesis?

The term used for a species or population that can produce its own food through photosynthesis is "producer." Producers are organisms that can convert sunlight into chemical energy by using chlorophyll to capture light energy, which is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process is essential for the ecosystem as it forms the base of the food chain, providing energy for consumers, including herbivores and omnivores. Examples of producers include plants, algae, and certain bacteria.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different roles in the ecosystem. Consumers are organisms that cannot make their own food and must rely on consuming other organisms for energy. Herbivores are a specific type of consumer that primarily eat plants, while omnivores consume both plant and animal matter. Understanding the role of producers is fundamental to ecology as they are crucial for sustaining life by providing the primary energy source within ecosystems.