In the transition from each trophic level of the food chain to the next trophic level, there is about a __________.

• A. 90% gain of energy
• B. 2% gain of energy
• C. 2% loss of energy
• D. 5% loss of energy
• E. 90% loss of energy

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy transfer in a food chain: In an ecosystem, energy flows from one trophic level to the next, starting from producers (like plants) to various levels of consumers (herbivores, carnivores, etc.).
2. Recognize the inefficiency of energy transfer: Not all energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next. A significant portion of energy is lost at each step, primarily as heat due to metabolic processes.
3. Recall the 10% rule: A general rule of thumb in ecology is that only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next level. This means that approximately 90% of the energy is lost.
4. Apply the 10% rule to the given options: Since only about 10% of energy is transferred, the remaining 90% is lost. This aligns with the option stating a 90% loss of energy.
5. Conclude with the correct understanding: The transition from each trophic level to the next involves a 90% loss of energy, which is a fundamental concept in understanding energy flow in ecosystems.