Question 1: Biomass transfer in an ecosystem refers to the movement of organic matter and energy from one trophic level to the next. Typically, only about 10% of the biomass at one level is transferred to the next, due to energy losses mainly as heat, waste, and respiration.

Answer: Biomass transfer is the movement of organic matter and energy between trophic levels, with only about 10% transferred due to energy losses.

Question 1: Define 'biomass' in the context of ecology.

Answer: Biomass is the total mass of living material in a given area or volume.

Question 2: Explain why only about 10% of biomass is transferred from one trophic level to the next.

Answer: Most energy is lost as heat, used in respiration, or excreted, so only a small proportion of biomass is transferred.

Question 1: A primary producer has a biomass of 5000 kg/hectare. If only 10% is transferred to herbivores, what is the biomass of herbivores in the same area?

Answer: 500 kg/hectare

Question 2: If the biomass of herbivores is 300 kg/hectare, estimate the biomass of the primary producers in the ecosystem assuming 10% transfer efficiency.

Answer: 3000 kg/hectare

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure biomass at different trophic levels in a local pond ecosystem. Include the variables you would control and any safety precautions.

Answer: Students could sample plants, herbivores, and carnivores, measure their mass, and compare biomass. Variables include sample size, time of year, and environmental conditions. Safety precautions involve wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding harmful organisms, and handling equipment carefully.

Question 1: In a forest ecosystem, the biomass of producers is 8000 kg/hectare, herbivores is 800 kg/hectare, and carnivores is 80 kg/hectare. Comment on the efficiency of biomass transfer at each step and discuss possible reasons for the observed pattern.

Answer: The biomass transfer efficiency is approximately 10% at each step, indicating typical energy losses. The decreasing biomass reflects energy being lost as heat, waste, or used in respiration, which limits energy available to higher trophic levels.

Question 1: How can understanding biomass transfer efficiencies help in managing sustainable fisheries and farming practices?

Answer: Understanding biomass transfer efficiencies helps in estimating the carrying capacity of ecosystems, preventing overfishing or overgrazing, and ensuring sustainable yields by maintaining energy flow balance.

Question 1: Explain why energy transfer between trophic levels is considered inefficient and discuss its ecological significance.

Answer: Energy transfer is inefficient because much of it is lost as heat during respiration, and some biomass is not consumed or assimilated. This limits the number of trophic levels and influences ecosystem stability and biodiversity.