Omnivore

An omnivore is an organism that regularly consumes a mixture of plant and animal matter. In biology, omnivory describes a dietary strategy rather than a taxonomic grouping, and it occurs in many animal lineages, including mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates. Omnivores are characterized by flexible foraging behavior and the ability to exploit a wide range of food sources, which can include fruits, seeds, leaves, roots, fungi, insects, small vertebrates, carrion, and prepared foods.

Dentition and digestion: Many omnivores possess generalized dentition with a mix of sharp canines, flat molars, and incisors that permit both tearing and grinding; digestive systems are adaptable to both carbohydrates and proteins. Gut length tends to be intermediate relative to herbivores and carnivores.

Examples: Humans, brown bears, raccoons, pigs, crows, and many rodent species represent typical omnivores.

Ecology and behavior: Omnivores influence ecosystems by controlling herbivore populations, dispersing seeds, and scavenging; their flexible diet allows them to adapt to disturbances. They often thrive in human-altered environments and can exploit seasonal or opportunistic food resources.

Nutrition and evolution: A balanced omnivore diet provides essential nutrients, while reliance on a single food source can lead to deficiencies or toxin exposure. Cooking and food processing can affect digestibility and nutrient availability. Omnivory has evolved independently in many lineages, reflecting the ecological advantages of dietary flexibility in variable environments.