A study of metabolic rates in a terrestrial community showed that the energy released by respiration exceeded the energy captured in photosynthesis. Which of the following situations is most likely?

• A. Community biomass is increasing.
• B. The second law of thermodynamics (in a closed system, there is a general tendency toward disorder) is not in effect.
• C. The first law of thermodynamics (energy is conserved) in not in effect.
• D. None of the listed responses is correct.
• E. Community biomass is decreasing.