Exploring the Dynamics of the Food Chain

The video explores the interconnectedness of ecosystems, focusing on the flow of matter and energy through a food chain. It begins with the sun as the primary energy source, highlighting the role of producers like plants and algae. The video then describes various consumers, from primary to tertiary, and apex predators like the American alligator. It explains the 10% rule, which limits the number of links in a food chain due to energy loss at each level.

What are the two essential elements needed by all organisms in the Everglades to survive?

• Water and Air

• Matter and Energy

• Carbon and Oxygen

• Sunlight and Water

Which organism is considered the primary producer in the Everglades food chain?

• American alligator

• Green plants and algae

• Great blue heron

• Mosquito larvae

Which type of organism harnesses the sun's energy to create food?

• Tertiary consumers

• Apex predators

• Secondary consumers

• Producers

What type of consumer is the Gambusia in the Everglades food chain?

• Tertiary consumer

• Secondary consumer

• Producer

• Primary consumer

What role do mosquito larvae play in the Everglades food chain?

• Primary consumer

• Producer

• Tertiary consumer

• Secondary consumer

Which organism is known for eating mosquito larvae?

• American alligator

• Gambusia

• Green plants

• Great blue heron

What does the great blue heron primarily consume?

• Sunlight

• Fish and other small animals

• Algae

• Plants

Why is the American alligator considered an apex predator?

• It consumes primary consumers

• It is a herbivore

• It is at the top of the food chain

• It produces its own food

What percentage of energy is typically transferred from one trophic level to the next in a food chain?

• About 50%

• About 75%

• About 25%

• About 10%

What is the main reason for the limited number of links in a food chain?

• Lack of sunlight

• Insufficient producers

• Overpopulation of apex predators

• Energy loss at each level