What term is used for an animal that hunts other animals for food?

The term used for an animal that hunts other animals for food is "predator." Predators play a crucial role in the ecosystem as they help maintain the balance of animal populations. By hunting and consuming other animals, they not only keep prey populations in check but also contribute to the cyclical nature of food webs. Predators may vary widely in size and strategy, from large carnivores like lions to smaller creatures like hawks or even insects.

In contrast, decomposers break down dead organic matter, herbivores primarily consume plants, and prey refers to those animals that are hunted and eaten by predators. This distinction is fundamental in understanding ecological relationships in nature.