Which example demonstrates herbivory?

Herbivory refers specifically to the consumption of plant materials by animals. In this context, the choice that illustrates herbivory is the action of a giraffe eating leaves off a tree. Giraffes are well-known herbivores, and their diet consists primarily of leaves, especially from acacia trees, which they use their long necks and specialized tongues to reach.

The act of consuming leaves is a clear demonstration of herbivory, as it highlights the interaction where an animal feeds on plants, thereby obtaining nutrients essential for its survival. Understanding herbivory is important in ecological studies, as it impacts plant population dynamics and the overall structure of ecosystems by influencing vegetation patterns and serving as a vital component of food webs.