Exological Pyramids Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is an Ecological Pyramid?
A graphical representation of the relationship between different living organisms at different trophic levels.
The base usually represents the producers, the next level shows the primary consumer, and so on.
What are the three types of Ecological Pyramids?
- Pyramid of Numbers
- Pyramid of Biomass
- Pyramid of Energy
What does the Pyramid of Numbers show?
The relative numbers of organisms at each trophic level in a particular area.
What is the typical shape of a Pyramid of Numbers?
Usually upright except in cases where many organisms feed on one living or dead plant or animal.
What is an Upright Pyramid of Numbers?
Fewer organisms as you move up the trophic levels.
What is an Inverted Pyramid of Numbers?
More organisms as you move up the trophic levels.
What is a Spindle-shaped Pyramid of Numbers?
Inconsistent number of organisms at each trophic level.
Give an example of a Pyramid of Numbers.
upright, inverted, spindle
What does the Pyramid of Biomass represent?
The amount of mass of organisms at each trophic level.
Why is dry mass used in the Pyramid of Biomass?
Because water content can cause inaccurate readings.
What is the typical shape of a Pyramid of Biomass?
Always upright except in oceans.
What does the Pyramid of Energy refer to?
The total quantity of energy utilized by the trophic levels in an area at a particular time.
How is energy lost in the Pyramid of Energy?
Energy is lost into the environment at each trophic level.
What is the 10% Rule?
Only 10% of energy is passed on when transferred from one trophic level to another.
What happens to the other 90% of energy in the 10% Rule?
90% is used for life processes or lost as heat.
What are the importance of Ecological Pyramids?
- Show the feeding relationships of organisms in ecosystems
- Display the efficiency of energy transfer
- Help monitor the condition of ecosystems to prevent further damage
What are the limitations of Ecological Pyramids?
- Do not account for food webs
- Decomposers are not considered
- Only applicable to simple food chains
- Do not reflect seasonal and climatic variations
