When producers die, energy flows to __________.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the correct completion of a statement regarding energy flow when producers die. It indicates that the answer is to be selected from a drop-down menu, ranging from ecological principles.
Answer
decomposers
The final answer is decomposers.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is decomposers.
More Information
When producers die, their energy flows to decomposers, which break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.
Tips
A common mistake is to think the energy flows directly to consumers, but decomposers play a key role in breaking down organic materials before consumers benefit.
Sources
- Flow of energy and cycling of matter in ecosystems - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org