Question

The pyramid of energy in any ecosystem is
A. Always upright
B. May be upright
C. Always inverted
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: A pyramid is a graphical representation. It is a structure with base being broader just in the shape of a trilateral, quadrilateral or polygonal surface. The upper portion of the pyramid is pointed and is small sized or small in dimension.

Complete answer:
The pyramid of energy in a n ecosystem is always upright. The system or community formed by the interaction of biotic components (living components) including plants, animals, bacteria, microorganisms and abiotic components including air, water, temperature and many other physical factors is called an ecosystem. Energy is the ability to work.

The pyramid of energy decreases with increase in trophic level and only 10% of the energy passes from one trophic level to next trophic level as stated by Raymond Lindeman. The series or manner in which one organism depends on another organism for food forms a chain-like structure that is called a food chain. Many food chains combine to form a web like structure called a food chain.

Grass$ \leftarrow $Rabbit$ \leftarrow $Fox$ \leftarrow $Tiger. Plants utilize a considerable (10%)amount. From sunlight in the form of solar energy and prepare food. The herbivores or primary consumers feed on plants to get small quantities (1%) of the energy from producers. The carnivores and secondary carnivores receive a very small amount of energy (0%) and (0.1%)from previous trophic levels.

Therefore, from above explanation the correct option is (A) Always upright.

Note: The importance of ecological pyramids are,
i) They show the efficiency of energy transfer
ii) The present condition of ecosystem can be monitored and also any kind of damage can also be prevented
iii) It demonstrates feeding of different organisms in different ecosystems