In an energy pyramid, which trophic level contains the greatest amount of available energy?

• A. Primary consumers (herbivores)
• B. Tertiary consumers (top predators)
• C. Secondary consumers (carnivores)
• D. Producers (autotrophs)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of an energy pyramid: An energy pyramid represents the flow of energy through different trophic levels in an ecosystem. Energy decreases as it moves up the pyramid due to energy loss (e.g., heat) at each level.
2. Identify the trophic levels: The pyramid starts with producers (autotrophs) at the base, followed by primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and tertiary consumers (top predators) at the top.
3. Recognize the role of producers: Producers, such as plants and algae, use photosynthesis to convert sunlight into chemical energy. They form the base of the pyramid and contain the greatest amount of available energy because they directly harness energy from the sun.
4. Understand energy transfer: Only a small percentage (approximately 10%) of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next. This means that as you move up the pyramid, the available energy decreases significantly.
5. Conclude that producers contain the greatest energy: Since producers are the foundation of the energy pyramid and directly capture energy from the sun, they have the highest energy content compared to other trophic levels.