Food Chain

An expression used to designate the interdependence which exist between plants, animals and humans with regard to the absorption of nutrients. The first link in the food chain are generally the green plants, followed by herbivores and carnivores. The top of the food chain is generally formed by living organisms which feed on dying or dead matter (so-called destructors, such as fungi and bacteria, etc.). The food chain is of great significance to the environment debate, since any Dangerous Substances which are introduced into it can accumulate in the following parts of the chain, combine with other substances, or be transformed into other substances. Humans, as both herbivores and carnivores, are exposed to particular risks in this respect.