Herbivory

Herbivory is the process by which animals consume plants and plant-based materials as their main form of nutrition. Because of the energy and nutrients stored in plant components, herbivory is an important part of the global food web and plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Herbivores provide nutrients to plants, which in turn, provide habitat and food to other animals. They also help regulate population sizes of plants and animals which maintains healthy biological communities. Herbivores also contribute to seed dispersal and soil aeration, which help plants to thrive. As such, herbivory is a fundamental part of the food chain and a key component of maintaining a balance in the natural environment.