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

question 20

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) the accumulation of toxic materials in tissues of animals 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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