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Question

The table lists some organisms found in a swamp ecosystem and their sources of energy.

When constructing an energy pyramid of the swamp ecosystem, which of these would be placed at the top of the pyramid?
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Eastern mud turtle
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American alligator
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Great blue heron
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Grass carp

Answer 1

In an energy pyramid, the organisms are arranged according to their trophic levels, with producers at the bottom and top predators at the top.

Based on the organisms listed:

• Eastern mud turtle: Herbivore or omnivore, typically lower in the pyramid.
• American alligator: Top predator, typically occupies a higher trophic level.
• Great blue heron: A predator (carnivore) but generally not at the very top.
• Grass carp: Herbivore, lower in the pyramid.

Given this information, the American alligator would be placed at the top of the energy pyramid in the swamp ecosystem.