Ecosystems and Energy Pyramids

What is the primary function of decomposers in an ecosystem?

What percentage of energy is typically transferred to the next trophic level in an energy pyramid?

What is the term for the population dynamics of predators and prey affecting energy transfer in an ecosystem?

What is the main reason for the pyramid shape of energy pyramids?

What is the term for the interconnected food chains that show energy transfer between multiple trophic levels?

Which trophic level is characterized by animals that eat primary consumers?

Energy Pyramids

Trophic Levels

A trophic level represents a position in a food chain, with each level representing a different feeding position
Typically, there are 4-5 trophic levels in an ecosystem:
1. Producers (autotrophs): plants, algae, and some bacteria
2. Primary consumers (herbivores): animals that eat producers
3. Secondary consumers (carnivores): animals that eat primary consumers
4. Tertiary consumers (top carnivores): animals that eat secondary consumers
5. Decomposers (detritivores): organisms that break down dead organic matter

Energy Transfer

Energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next through consumption
Energy is lost as heat at each trophic level (approx. 90% lost per level)
Only 10% of energy is transferred to the next trophic level
This energy loss is the reason for the pyramid shape of energy pyramids

Food Chain Dynamics

Food chains are simplified representations of energy transfer between trophic levels
Food webs are more complex representations of energy transfer, showing multiple food chains interconnected
Key concepts:
- Predator-prey relationships: population dynamics of predators and prey affect energy transfer
- Nutrient cycling: decomposers recycle nutrients, making them available to producers
- Energy flow: energy is transferred through consumption, but also lost as heat and waste

Understand the flow of energy through ecosystems, from producers to decomposers, and how energy is transferred and lost between trophic levels. Learn about food chains and webs, predator-prey relationships, and nutrient cycling. Test your knowledge of energy pyramids and ecosystem dynamics.