Ecological Pyramids

Front

What is an ecological pyramid?

Back

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

Front

What does a pyramid of energy represent?

Back

A pyramid of energy shows the amount of energy available at each trophic level in an ecosystem, typically decreasing as you move up the pyramid.

Front

What does a pyramid of biomass compare?

Back

A pyramid of biomass compares the total mass of living organisms at each trophic level in an ecosystem.

Front

What is a trophic level?

Back

A trophic level is a position in a food chain or food web, defined by how organisms obtain their energy.

Front

What is the primary producer in an ecological pyramid?

Back

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

Front

What is a herbivore?

Back

A herbivore is an organism that primarily eats plants and is typically found at the second trophic level.

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What is a carnivore?

Back

A carnivore is an organism that primarily eats other animals and is usually found at higher trophic levels.

Front

What is a secondary consumer?

Back

A secondary consumer is an organism that eats primary consumers (herbivores) and is typically found at the third trophic level.

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

What is the role of decomposers in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and completing the energy cycle.