Ecological Pyramids

Front

What is an ecological pyramid?

Back

An ecological pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the relationship between different levels of organisms in an ecosystem, illustrating the flow of energy or biomass.

Front

What are the three main types of ecological pyramids?

Back

The three main types of ecological pyramids are: 1. Pyramid of Numbers, 2. Pyramid of Biomass, 3. Pyramid of Energy.

Front

What is the primary producer in an ecological pyramid?

Back

The primary producer is typically plants or phytoplankton that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.

Front

What percentage of energy is typically transferred from one trophic level to the next?

Back

Typically, only about 10% of the energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next.

Front

Who are the primary consumers in an ecological pyramid?

Back

Primary consumers are herbivores that eat the primary producers (plants) in the ecosystem.

Front

What role do secondary consumers play in an ecological pyramid?

Back

Secondary consumers are carnivores or omnivores that eat primary consumers.

Front

What happens to energy as it moves up the ecological pyramid?

Back

As energy moves up the ecological pyramid, it decreases significantly due to energy loss at each trophic level, primarily through metabolic processes.

Front

What is the significance of the base of the ecological pyramid?

Back

The base of the ecological pyramid represents the primary producers, which are essential for energy flow in the ecosystem.

Front

How does a decrease in herbivore population affect plant life?

Back

If the population of herbivores decreases, the population of meadow plants will likely increase due to reduced grazing pressure.

Front

What is the relationship between energy transfer and trophic levels?

Back

Energy transfer between trophic levels is inefficient, with only about 10% of energy being passed on to the next level.