Concept
Ecosystem energy flow refers to the transfer of energy through a food chain, starting from primary producers that capture solar energy through photosynthesis and moving through various trophic levels to apex predators and decomposers. This flow is crucial for maintaining ecosystem structure and function, as energy is lost as heat at each trophic level, limiting the number of levels and influencing biodiversity and productivity.
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Concept
Primary production is the process by which autotrophic organisms, such as plants and algae, convert inorganic carbon (usually in the form of CO2) into organic compounds using energy from sunlight or chemical reactions. This process forms the base of the food web, supporting all other life forms by producing the organic matter that fuels ecosystems.
Concept
Detritus is like nature's recycling bin, made up of tiny bits of dead plants and animals. It helps new plants grow by giving them food and making the soil healthy.
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