What defines a predator in the animal kingdom?

A predator in the animal kingdom is specifically defined as an animal that hunts and captures other animals for food. This behavior is a key characteristic of predators, as they actively pursue and kill their prey to obtain the necessary nutrients to survive and grow. Predatory behavior is critical for maintaining the balance of ecosystems, as it affects the population dynamics of both the predator and its prey.

In contrast, the other options describe different ecological roles. An animal that is hunted by others refers to prey, which is the opposite of a predator. An animal that gathers food from plants describes herbivores, which primarily consume vegetation rather than hunting other animals. An animal that maintains a territory is describing territorial behavior, which can be exhibited by both predators and non-predators, but does not specifically define what makes an animal a predator. Thus, the specific action of hunting other animals for food distinctly categorizes a predator within the animal kingdom.