Trophic Levels and Feeding Relationships

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

A diagram that compares energy used by different trophic levels, illustrating the energy flow in an ecosystem.

Front

Define a food chain.

Back

A linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.

Front

Why do energy pyramids and biomass pyramids usually have a similar shape?

Back

The amount of biomass on any level cannot be greater than the available energy can support.

Front

What organism is in the second trophic level in the food chain: producer --> herbivore --> omnivore --> carnivore?

Back

Herbivore.

Front

What does biomass refer to?

Back

The total mass of the organisms in a given area.

Front

What is a trophic level?

Back

A specific level in a food chain or food web, representing the position of an organism in relation to the flow of energy and nutrients.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A complex network of feeding relationships among various organisms in an ecosystem.

Front

What is the primary producer in an ecosystem?

Back

Organisms that produce energy through photosynthesis, such as plants.

Front

What role do herbivores play in a food chain?

Back

Herbivores are primary consumers that eat producers to obtain energy.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of energy transfer, while a food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains.