Multiple Choice
Which of the following is considered a biotic factor in an ecosystem?
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48. Ecology
Introduction to Ecology
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Which of the following best describes a trophic cascade in an ecosystem?
A
The competition between species for the same limited resources.
B
The movement of energy from producers to primary consumers through photosynthesis.
C
A process in which changes at one trophic level cause a series of indirect effects on lower or higher trophic levels.
D
The recycling of nutrients through the decomposition of organic matter.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of a trophic cascade. A trophic cascade refers to a process in an ecosystem where changes at one trophic level (such as predators, herbivores, or producers) lead to indirect effects on other trophic levels, either higher or lower in the food chain.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option describes competition between species, which is not related to trophic cascades but rather to interspecific competition. Eliminate this option.
Step 3: The second option mentions the movement of energy from producers to primary consumers through photosynthesis. While this describes energy flow in an ecosystem, it does not capture the indirect effects characteristic of trophic cascades. Eliminate this option.
Step 4: The third option describes a process in which changes at one trophic level cause a series of indirect effects on lower or higher trophic levels. This aligns with the definition of a trophic cascade, as it highlights the interconnectedness and indirect impacts within the ecosystem.
Step 5: The fourth option refers to nutrient recycling through decomposition, which is a separate ecological process and not related to trophic cascades. Eliminate this option.
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