Multiple Choice
Why are most food chains limited to three to five trophic levels?
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52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
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In an ecosystem, approximately how much energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next higher trophic level?
A
About 10%
B
About 50%
C
About 1%
D
About 90%
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of energy transfer in an ecosystem: Energy flows through trophic levels in a food chain, starting from producers (plants) to primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and so on. Only a fraction of energy is transferred to the next level.
Recall the '10% Rule': In ecology, it is generally observed that only about 10% of the energy at one trophic level is passed on to the next trophic level. The rest is lost as heat, used in metabolic processes, or remains in unconsumed biomass.
Analyze the options provided: Compare the given percentages (10%, 50%, 1%, 90%) to the 10% Rule. Determine which value aligns with the typical energy transfer observed in ecosystems.
Consider why energy transfer is limited: Energy loss occurs due to factors such as respiration, movement, reproduction, and inefficiencies in energy conversion during consumption.
Conclude the reasoning process: Based on the 10% Rule and the explanation of energy loss, identify the correct percentage that matches the typical energy transfer between trophic levels.
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