Multiple Choice
What is represented by a biomass pyramid in an ecosystem?
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52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
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In this energy pyramid, which trophic level contains the greatest amount of available energy?
A
Producers (autotrophs)
B
Primary consumers (herbivores)
C
Secondary consumers (carnivores)
D
Tertiary consumers (top predators)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of an energy pyramid: An energy pyramid represents the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem. Energy decreases as it moves up the pyramid due to energy loss (e.g., heat) at each level.
Identify the trophic levels: Producers (autotrophs) are at the base of the pyramid, followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and tertiary consumers (top predators).
Recall the energy transfer rule: Only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next level. The remaining 90% is lost as heat or used for metabolic processes.
Determine which level has the greatest energy: Since producers (autotrophs) are at the base of the pyramid, they have the greatest amount of available energy because they directly capture energy from the sun through photosynthesis.
Conclude that energy decreases progressively: As you move up the pyramid to primary consumers, secondary consumers, and tertiary consumers, the available energy decreases significantly due to the 10% energy transfer rule.
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