Which of the following best describes the direction of energy flow through an ecosystem?

• A. From secondary consumers to primary consumers to producers to decomposers
• B. From producers to primary consumers to secondary consumers to decomposers
• C. From primary consumers to producers to decomposers to secondary consumers
• D. From decomposers to secondary consumers to primary consumers to producers

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy flow in an ecosystem: Energy flows through an ecosystem in a linear fashion, starting with producers, which are organisms like plants and algae that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
2. Recognize the role of primary consumers: Primary consumers are herbivores that feed directly on producers, obtaining energy stored in the producers' biomass.
3. Identify the role of secondary consumers: Secondary consumers are carnivores or omnivores that feed on primary consumers, transferring energy further up the food chain.
4. Understand the role of decomposers: Decomposers, such as fungi and bacteria, break down dead organisms and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem, but they do not initiate energy flow.
5. Conclude the correct sequence: The direction of energy flow in an ecosystem is from producers to primary consumers to secondary consumers to decomposers, as energy is transferred through trophic levels in this order.