Why is there less biomass at the top of the energy pyramid?(1 point)

Question

Responses

Secondary and tertiary consumers are larger, so there are fewer of them.
Secondary and tertiary consumers are larger, so there are fewer of them.
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 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 have bigger ranges, so there are fewer of them because they each need a lot of space.

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.

This explains the decrease in biomass at the top of the energy pyramid, as higher trophic levels require more energy and resources, leading to fewer individuals being able to be supported compared to lower trophic levels.