What is the term for animals that only eat plants?

Herbivores are animals that primarily consume plants as their main source of food. They have digestive systems adapted to process plant materials, which can be tough and fibrous, allowing them to extract the necessary nutrients. Some well-known examples of herbivores include cows, sheep, and rabbits.

In contrast, carnivores eat other animals, while omnivores have a varied diet that includes both plants and animal products. Detritivores play a unique role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling. Understanding these classifications helps in studying food chains and ecosystems, highlighting how each type of animal plays a role in their environment.