Energy Flow in Ecosystems PDF

Energy Flow in an Ecosystem Understanding Trophic Levels and Energy Transfer Saunar, Maricon T. – BSCpE 4A What is ecosystem? ► An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their non-living environment in a specific...

Energy Flow in an Ecosystem Understanding Trophic Levels and Energy Transfer Saunar, Maricon T. – BSCpE 4A What is ecosystem? ► An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their non-living environment in a specific area. These interactions form a system where energy flows and matter cycles to sustain life. An ecosystem has biotic components (living) which include plants, animals, and humans, and it also contains abiotic components (non-living) such as soil, air, water, etc. Energy Flow in an Ecosystem ► The energy flow of ecosystem means the pathway energy takes to move from one organism to another in an ecosystem. The energy flow of an ecosystem is a fundamental concept of ecological studies. ► The direction of flow of energy in an ecosystem is unidirectional and is typically in the form of food energy that flows from one trophic level to another. Energy Flow of Ecosystem Diagram Ten Percent Law: ► This law was introduced in context to energy flow in Ecosystem by Raymond Lindeman ► The energy flow follows the 10 percent law. According to this law, only 10 percent of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the other. Tropic Levels Understanding Trophic Levels and Energy Transfer What is Tropic Levels? ► The trophic levels refer to the position of a group of organisms in a food chain, food web, or ecological pyramid based on their feeding pattern. They are shown in a series or a succession to represent energy flow from one trophic level to another. In most food chains, there are a maximum of four to five trophic levels, but the number can vary depending on the composition of the ecosystem. Tropic Levels Importance of Trophic Levels ► The importance of tropic levels lies in their role in maintaining the structure and function of ecosystems. They facilitate the flow of energy from producers to apex predators, highlighting how energy diminishes at each level due to metabolic losses. Trophic levels ensure ecosystem stability by creating interdependence among organisms, where each level supports the others. Additionally, decomposers at all levels recycle nutrients back into the environment, enabling producers to sustain the cycle of life and maintain ecological balance.