Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a reason that such a small fraction of the energy that reaches the Earth as solar radiation ends up at the top of the food chain?
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52. Ecosystems
Energy & Biomass Pyramids
Multiple Choice
Why are there fewer organisms as you move up the energy pyramid?
A
Organisms at higher levels reproduce more slowly, leading to fewer individuals.
B
Energy is lost at each trophic level, reducing the amount available to higher levels.
C
Organisms at higher levels require less energy, resulting in fewer individuals.
D
Higher levels have more predators, which decreases the number of organisms.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of an energy pyramid: An energy pyramid is a graphical representation of the energy flow in an ecosystem, with different trophic levels representing different groups of organisms.
Recognize that energy is transferred between trophic levels: Energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next, starting with producers (like plants) and moving up to primary consumers, secondary consumers, and so on.
Acknowledge energy loss at each trophic level: As energy is transferred from one level to the next, a significant portion is lost, primarily as heat due to metabolic processes. This is often described by the 10% rule, where only about 10% of the energy is passed on to the next level.
Connect energy availability to organism numbers: Because less energy is available at higher trophic levels, there are fewer resources to support large populations of organisms. This results in fewer individuals as you move up the pyramid.
Consider the implications of energy loss: The reduction in available energy at higher trophic levels limits the biomass and number of organisms that can be sustained, leading to fewer individuals at these levels.
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