Energy Flow in Ecosystems

Front

What is an organism that breaks down biotic wastes and dead organisms?

Back

Decomposers are organisms that break down biotic wastes and dead organisms, returning raw materials to the ecosystem.

Front

What do we call an organism that can make its own food?

Back

A producer is an organism that can make its own food through processes like photosynthesis.

Front

What is an organism that obtains energy by feeding on other organisms?

Back

Consumers are organisms that obtain energy by feeding on other organisms.

Front

What are the many overlapping food chains in an ecosystem called?

Back

A food web is a complex network of interconnected food chains in an ecosystem.

Front

In an energy pyramid, where is most of the energy found?

Back

Most of the energy is found at the producer level of the energy pyramid.

Front

What is the role of producers in an ecosystem?

Back

Producers convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

What is a herbivore?

Back

A herbivore is an organism that primarily eats plants.

Front

What is a carnivore?

Back

A carnivore is an organism that primarily eats other animals.

Front

What is a scavenger?

Back

A scavenger is an organism that feeds on dead animals and plants.

Front

What is the difference between a food chain and a food web?

Back

A food chain is a linear sequence of organisms through which energy flows, while a food web is a complex network of multiple food chains.