A secondary consumer in an ecosystem refers to organisms that primarily feed on primary consumers (herbivores) by consuming plant-eating organisms. These consumers are typically carnivores or top predators in their food chains, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. By controlling herbivore populations, secondary consumers help regulate plant growth and ensure the health of the ecosystem. They are essential for nutrient cycling and energy transfer within food webs, linking producers (plants) and primary consumers (herbivores) to higher trophic levels. Examples include animals like hawks, snakes, and certain fish.