Energy Flow Through Ecosystems

Front

What are organisms that get their energy from non-living sources called?

Back

Autotrophs

Front

What percentage of energy moves on to the next trophic level?

Back

10%

Front

If producers receive 100% of the energy, how much energy do secondary consumers receive?

Back

1%

Front

What does the total mass of living organic matter at each trophic level represent?

Back

Biomass Pyramid

Front

Why does energy decrease as you move up a food chain?

Back

Energy is lost as heat as you move up a food chain.

Front

What are the two main types of organisms in an ecosystem based on energy acquisition?

Back

Autotrophs and Heterotrophs

Front

What is the primary source of energy for most ecosystems?

Back

The Sun

Front

What is a food chain?

Back

A linear sequence of organisms through which nutrients and energy pass as one organism eats another.

Front

What is a food web?

Back

A complex network of feeding relationships among various organisms in an ecosystem.

Front

What role do decomposers play in an ecosystem?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil.