primary producer

American  

noun

Biology.

1. any green plant or any of various microorganisms that can convert light energy or chemical energy into organic matter.

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Other Word Forms

• primary production
  noun

Etymology

Origin of primary producer

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Epaulette sharks typically produce two eggs every three weeks, with most egg-laying occurring between September and December.

From Science Daily • Jan. 21, 2026

Type A viruses typically produce more serious illness, particularly H3N2.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

The Labour-controlled authority said, "These heavier vehicles typically produce more emissions, cause greater wear and tear on roads, and critically pose a significantly higher risk in the event of a road traffic collision."

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

“Radioactive decay does not typically produce visible fluorescence, so, no,” wrote Megan Cook of the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency in an email.

From Slate • Aug. 21, 2025

Exhibit three: even if a baby is conceived, wild pandas will typically produce just one cub every two years—an exceptionally slow method of repopulating.

From "Camp Panda" by Catherine Thimmesh