For Most Terrestrial Ecosystems, Pyramids Composed of Species Abundances, Biomass

question 36

Multiple Choice

For most terrestrial ecosystems, pyramids composed of species abundances, biomass, and energy are similar in that they have a broad base and a narrow top. The primary reason for this pattern is that

• A) secondary consumers and top carnivores require less energy than producers.
• B) at each step, energy is lost from the system because of the second law of thermodynamics.
• C) as matter passes through ecosystems, some of it is lost to the environment.
• D) biomagnification of toxic materials limits the secondary consumers and top carnivores.
• E) top carnivores and secondary consumers have a more general diet than primary producers.

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Definitions:

Subsidization

The act of providing financial aid or support by a government or organization to lower the cost of producing goods or services.

Monopoly

A market structure characterized by a single seller, offering a unique product or service with no close substitutes, leading to the control of a particular market.

Gross Investment

The total expenditure on new capital assets (plant, equipment, buildings) before accounting for depreciation.

Net Export

The value of a country's total exports minus its total imports, representing the balance of trade.