Which organism type is typically at the base of the food web?

Primary producers are typically at the base of the food web because they are organisms that can produce their own food through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. These organisms, which include plants, algae, and some bacteria, convert energy from sunlight or inorganic compounds into organic molecules, forming the foundation of energy for the entire ecosystem.

As the first trophic level in a food web, primary producers support all other levels, which include primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and decomposers. Without primary producers, there would be no energy source for these subsequent organisms, underscoring their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and productivity.