Which of the following is the primary way energy is transferred from one organism to another in an ecosystem?

• A. Through the consumption of organisms (e.g., predation or herbivory)
• B. By direct absorption of sunlight by animals
• C. Through the process of respiration
• D. Via the exchange of genetic material during reproduction

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of energy transfer in ecosystems. Energy primarily flows through ecosystems via the food chain, starting with producers (like plants) that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
2. Step 2: Recognize that animals cannot directly absorb sunlight for energy. Instead, they rely on consuming other organisms (plants or animals) to obtain energy stored in chemical bonds.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the role of respiration. While respiration is a process that releases energy within an organism, it is not the primary method of transferring energy between organisms in an ecosystem.
4. Step 4: Consider the exchange of genetic material during reproduction. This process is crucial for passing on traits but does not involve energy transfer between organisms.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the primary way energy is transferred in an ecosystem is through the consumption of organisms, such as predation or herbivory, where energy stored in one organism is passed to another.