Pyramid of numbers

The transcript discusses the concept of feeding levels within a food chain, highlighting how the number of organisms typically decreases at higher levels, forming a pyramid shape. It also mentions that other shapes are possible, such as when a single tree supports thousands of insects, which in turn support fewer birds.

What is the typical shape formed by the distribution of organisms across different feeding levels in a food chain?

• Square

• Pyramid

• Circle

• Rectangle

Why might there be fewer organisms at higher feeding levels in a food chain?

• Higher levels are more crowded

• Higher levels are less competitive

• Higher levels have less energy available

• Higher levels have more food

What is an example of a food chain that does not form a pyramid shape?

• A desert with few plants

• A single tree supporting thousands of insects

• A forest with many trees

• A river supporting many fish

In the example given, what do the insects supported by a single tree provide for?

• Smaller insects

• More trees

• Larger trees

• A smaller number of birds

Which of the following best describes the relationship between a single tree and the organisms it supports?

• The tree supports a larger number of birds than insects

• The tree supports an equal number of insects and birds

• The tree supports a smaller number of insects than birds

• The tree supports thousands of insects, which support fewer birds