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Multiple Choice
Which type of ecological pyramid represents the amount of living organic matter at each trophic level in an ecosystem?
A
Pyramid of productivity
B
Pyramid of energy
C
Pyramid of numbers
D
Pyramid of biomass
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of ecological pyramids: Ecological pyramids are graphical representations that show the relationship between different trophic levels in an ecosystem. They can represent energy, numbers, or biomass.
Define the pyramid of biomass: The pyramid of biomass represents the total amount of living organic matter (biomass) present at each trophic level in an ecosystem. Biomass is typically measured in units such as grams per square meter (g/m²) or kilograms per hectare (kg/ha).
Compare the pyramid of biomass to other types of ecological pyramids: The pyramid of energy shows the flow of energy through trophic levels, while the pyramid of numbers represents the number of organisms at each trophic level. The pyramid of biomass specifically focuses on the mass of living matter.
Relate the pyramid of biomass to trophic levels: At each trophic level, the biomass decreases as energy is lost due to metabolic processes and inefficiencies in energy transfer. This is why the pyramid of biomass typically narrows as you move up the trophic levels.
Conclude why the pyramid of biomass is the correct answer: Since the question asks for the type of ecological pyramid that represents the amount of living organic matter, the pyramid of biomass is the correct choice because it directly measures the mass of living material at each trophic level.