What term is used for an animal that consumes both plants and animals?

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The term for an animal that consumes both plants and animals is "omnivore." Omnivores have a varied diet that includes not only meat and fish but also fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts. This dietary adaptability allows them to thrive in different environments and can offer advantages during food shortages, as they can switch between different food sources based on availability.

Carnivores primarily eat other animals, while herbivores focus solely on plant material. Scavengers, although they consume both plant and animal material, specifically feed on dead or decaying organisms rather than actively hunting or gathering live food sources. Thus, "omnivore" aptly describes an animal that engages in both eating strategies, distinguishing it from the other types of consumers in the ecosystem.

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