Multiple Choice
What percentage of energy from a lower trophic level is typically transferred to the next higher trophic level in an ecosystem?
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52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
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Why are most food chains limited to three to five trophic levels?
A
Because energy is lost at each trophic level, limiting the amount available to higher levels.
B
Because producers cannot support more than two consumer levels.
C
Because there are not enough species to form longer food chains.
D
Because higher trophic levels cannot survive in most ecosystems.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of trophic levels: Trophic levels represent the hierarchical positions in a food chain, starting with producers (plants and algae) at the base, followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores or omnivores), and so on.
Learn about energy transfer in ecosystems: Energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next, but only a small fraction (approximately 10%) of the energy is passed on. The rest is lost as heat, waste, or used for metabolic processes.
Recognize the implications of energy loss: Due to the significant energy loss at each trophic level, there is less energy available to support organisms at higher levels. This limits the number of trophic levels in a food chain.
Consider the role of producers: Producers are the foundation of the food chain, converting solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Their energy output determines how many consumer levels can be supported.
Evaluate ecosystem constraints: Ecosystems vary in productivity and resources, which can further limit the number of trophic levels. Higher trophic levels require more energy and resources, making it difficult for them to survive in ecosystems with limited energy flow.
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