Ecology

Front

What is an energy pyramid?

Back

An energy pyramid is a graphical representation that shows the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem, illustrating how energy decreases as it moves from producers to top predators.

Front

What are producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers are organisms, typically plants and algae, that can make their own food through photosynthesis, forming the base of the energy pyramid.

Front

What are herbivores?

Back

Herbivores are animals that primarily eat plants and are found at the second trophic level in the energy pyramid.

Front

What are carnivores?

Back

Carnivores are animals that eat other animals and are typically found at higher trophic levels in the energy pyramid.

Front

What is a decomposer?

Back

Decomposers are organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, that break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil.

Front

How does energy flow in an energy pyramid?

Back

Energy flows up the pyramid, with each trophic level receiving less energy than the one below it.

Front

What is the primary producer level in an energy pyramid?

Back

The primary producer level is the first trophic level, consisting of organisms that produce energy through photosynthesis.

Front

What is a primary consumer?

Back

A primary consumer is an organism that eats primary producers; they are typically herbivores.

Front

What is a tertiary consumer?

Back

A tertiary consumer is an organism that eats secondary consumers; they are often carnivores at the top of the food chain.

Front

What role do top predators play in an ecosystem?

Back

Top predators are at the highest trophic level and have no natural enemies, helping to regulate the populations of other species.