Unit Three: Vertebrates, Invertebrates and the Food Web
Science Enrichment Vocabulary and Definitions
1. Producer: an organism that makes its own food through photosynthesis. Plants
and algae are examples of producers.
2. Consumer: an organism that eats another organism. Humans are Consumers.
3. Predator: an organism that eats (preys) another organism.
4. Prey: to hunt other animals for food-or the animal that is hunted by another for
food.
5. Decomposer: Organisms that eat dead matter.
6. Habitat: place where an organism lives.
7. Symbiotic: living together of two different organisms in a close association that
is advantageous to both.
8. Parasitic: a plant or animal that lives on or within another and that is how it is
able to gain substance (eat) and live.
9. Vertebrate: having a backbone or spinal column
10. Invertebrate: not having a backbone or spinal column
11. Carnivore: an animal that eats flesh or animals
12. Omnivore: eats both plants and animals as food
13. Herbivore: eats plants for food.
14. Abiotic: nonliving; e.g. light, temperature, wind patterns, rocks, soil, pH,
pressure, etc. in an environment
15. Biotic: parts of an ecosystem living or once living
Remember: Study every night! If you take 5 minutes each night, the test on Friday will
be outstanding and easy! Also, find the method of studying that works best for you! Use
flash cards, have someone quiz you, or go onto Quizlet.com! It is a great way to
study!!!!!!!!!! Find the way that works for YOU!