Ecology SOL Unit 6.2 - Trophic Levels

What are the biotic factors arranged into different feeding groups known as?

• Autotrophs

• Heterotrophs

• Trophic Levels

• Producers

Answer explanation

Trophic levels categorize biotic factors based on their feeding relationships. Autotrophs (producers) and heterotrophs (consumers) are organized into these levels, making 'Trophic Levels' the correct term for this classification.

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Which organisms are known as producers?

• Heterotrophs

• Autotrophs

• Carnivores

• Omnivores

Answer explanation

Producers are organisms that can make their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Autotrophs, such as plants, are the primary producers in ecosystems, while heterotrophs, carnivores, and omnivores rely on others for energy.

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Where do chemoautotrophs typically live?

• In sunlight

• In forests

• In the ocean depths

• In deserts

Answer explanation

Chemoautotrophs thrive in extreme environments, primarily in the ocean depths, where they utilize chemical energy from inorganic compounds, unlike organisms that rely on sunlight or terrestrial habitats.

What is the main characteristic of herbivores?

• They eat meat

• They eat plants

• They eat both plants and meat

• They produce their own food

Answer explanation

Herbivores are primarily characterized by their diet, which consists of plants. Unlike carnivores that eat meat or omnivores that consume both, herbivores exclusively rely on plant material for their nutrition.

Which of the following is a type of autotroph?

• Herbivore

• Carnivore

• Photoautotroph

• Omnivore

Answer explanation

A photoautotroph is a type of autotroph that uses light energy to synthesize food from carbon dioxide and water. Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores are heterotrophs, as they rely on consuming other organisms for energy.

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What do scavengers primarily eat?

• Live prey

• Dead animals

• Plants

• Fruits

Answer explanation

Scavengers primarily eat dead animals, as they feed on carrion rather than hunting live prey. This behavior helps recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Which of the following is an example of a scavenger?

• Lion

• Hyena

• Elephant

• Giraffe

Answer explanation

Hyenas are scavengers, often feeding on the remains of dead animals. Unlike lions, elephants, and giraffes, which are primarily herbivores or hunters, hyenas play a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carrion.

Which type of consumer is at the top of the trophic pyramid?

• Primary consumers

• Secondary consumers

• Tertiary consumers

• Herbivores

Answer explanation

Tertiary consumers are at the top of the trophic pyramid, feeding on secondary consumers. They are typically carnivores or apex predators, while primary and secondary consumers are lower in the pyramid.

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What is a characteristic feature of carnivores?

• Flat molars for grinding

• Sharp teeth and claws

• Complex stomachs

• Camouflage abilities

Answer explanation

Carnivores are characterized by sharp teeth and claws, which are essential for catching and tearing flesh. This adaptation allows them to efficiently consume their prey, unlike herbivores that have flat molars for grinding.

What adaptation helps some prey avoid predators?

• Playing dead

• High protein diet

• Sharp claws

• Complex stomachs

Answer explanation

Playing dead is an effective adaptation that some prey use to avoid predators. By mimicking death, they can trick predators into losing interest, allowing them to escape danger.

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