Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Life Science to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Life Science to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
All ecosystems rely on two essential processes: the flow of energy and the cycling of matter.
In a forest, energy from sunlight is captured by trees and other producers through photosynthesis. This process converts light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. Herbivores, such as deer and insects, consume plants and use that stored energy for growth and movement. Predators, such as owls or foxes, then feed on herbivores - transferring energy up the food chain. However, not all energy is passed on. Most of it is lost as heat at each step, which is why higher trophic levels have fewer organisms.
When plants and animals die, decomposers such as fungi and bacteria break down their remains. This releases carbon dioxide, water, and nutrients like nitrogen back into the soil and atmosphere. These materials can then be reused by producers to grow new plants.
Through this constant exchange, matter is recycled, while energy flows in a single direction - from sunlight to producers to consumers and finally to decomposers. This balance keeps ecosystems functioning and supports all forms of life on Earth.
Table 1.
Trophic Level | Example Organisms | Average Biomass (kg/ha) | Average Energy Available (kcal/m |
|---|---|---|---|
Producers | Trees, shrubs, grasses | 25000 | 20000 |
Primary Consumers | Insects, deer, rabbits | 2000 | 2000 |
Secondary Consumers | Foxes, birds, snakes | 200 | 200 |
Tertiary Consumers | Hawks, owls | 20 | 20 |
Decomposers | Fungi, bacteria | 2 | 2 |
Graph of Information - Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Using Table 1, describe the pattern in biomass across trophic levels from producers to tertiary consumers.
Which statement best explains why tertiary consumers have the lowest energy available?
Does the data support the claim that energy decreases at each trophic level?
Claim:
Evidence:
Reasoning:
Which process is MOST responsible for recycling matter back into the forest ecosystem?
Explain how decomposers support the growth of producers in a forest ecosystem.
Compare the energy available to producers and primary consumers. What does this difference show about energy flow in ecosystems?