Question

Why is there less biomass at the top of the energy pyramid?(1 point) Responses Secondary and tertiary consumers live longer, so there are fewer of them because they reproduce more slowly. Secondary and tertiary consumers live longer, so there are fewer of them because they reproduce more slowly. Secondary and tertiary consumers have bigger ranges, so there are fewer of them because they each need a lot of space. Secondary and tertiary consumers have bigger ranges, so there are fewer of them because they each need a lot of space. Secondary and tertiary consumers have to consume a lot more food to support themselves, so there are fewer of them. Secondary and tertiary consumers have to consume a lot more food to support themselves, so there are fewer of them. Secondary and tertiary consumers are larger, so there are fewer of them. Secondary and tertiary consumers are larger, so there are fewer of them.

Answer 1

The correct response is: Secondary and tertiary consumers have to consume a lot more food to support themselves, so there are fewer of them.

In an energy pyramid, energy decreases as you move up the levels because energy is lost at each trophic level, primarily through metabolic processes and heat. Consequently, there is less biomass available to support higher trophic levels (secondary and tertiary consumers), resulting in fewer individuals compared to primary producers and primary consumers at the base of the pyramid.