Recycling Matter in Ecosystems

Front

What is the flow of matter in a food chain?

Back

Matter flows from one organism to another, typically from producers to consumers.

Front

What happens to the total amount of matter in an ecosystem?

Back

The total amount of matter stays the same as it is recycled through the ecosystem.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organisms and waste, returning nutrients to the soil.

Front

How do consumers obtain energy in an ecosystem?

Back

Consumers eat other organisms to get energy.

Front

What would happen if all decomposers were removed from an ecosystem?

Back

Nutrients would not be recycled, leading to a buildup of waste and a lack of nutrients for plants.

Front

What is a producer in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers are organisms, like plants, that make their own food using sunlight.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

Primary consumers are herbivores that eat producers.

Front

What is a secondary consumer?

Back

Secondary consumers are carnivores that eat primary consumers.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.

Front

Why are plants important in an ecosystem?

Back

Plants provide food and oxygen for other organisms and are the base of the food chain.