Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
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Correct Answer: Option (A) — Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference VerifiedOption (a) is correct: Diatoms are microscopic primary producers (phytoplankton), which are eaten by primary consumers such as Crustaceans (e.g., copepods, krill), which are in turn consumed by secondary consumers such as Herrings (small fish).
A food chain must start with primary autotrophic producers. Diatoms are phytoplankton (producers), while crustaceans are zooplankton/consumers.
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