In an ecosystem if the Net Primary Productivity (NPP) of first trophic level is 100x(kcalm–2)yr–1, what would be the GPP (Gross Primary Productivity) of the third trophic level of the same ecosystem?
(a) Energy flow from producers to consumers is unidirectional. (b) Energy pyramid can never be inverted. (c) Transfer of energy follows the 10% law.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Energy flow is unidirectional, the pyramid of energy is always upright, and only about 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next.
I. Accumulation of dark coloured amorphous colloidal substance
B. Detritus
II. Release of inorganic nutrients by the activity of microbes in soil
C. Mineralisation
III. Breaking down of complex organic matter into simpler substances
D. Humification
IV. Dead remains of plants and animals including faecal matter
Decomposition breaks down detritus. Detritus consists of dead organic matter. Mineralisation releases inorganic nutrients. Humification forms dark-coloured humus.
I. Gross primary productivity minus respiration losses
B. Net primary productivity
II. Rate of formation of new organic matter by consumers
C. Gross primary productivity
III. Rate of biomass production
D. Secondary productivity
IV. Rate of production of organic matter during photosynthesis
Productivity is the rate of biomass production. Net primary productivity equals GPP minus respiration losses. Gross primary productivity is the rate of photosynthesis, while secondary productivity is the rate of biomass formation by consumers.