Question bank: Ecology: Ecological Pyramids

In an aquatic ecosystem, an ecological pyramid of energy is built to represent the energy relationship between different trophic levels. Considering a lake as an example, the first trophic level is composed of phytoplankton, which are primary consumers, followed by zooplankton, which feed on phytoplankton, and finally, fish that feed on zooplankton. Suppose that 10,000 Joules of solar energy are captured by the phytoplankton every day. Of these, 1,000 Joules are used in their own respiration and other metabolic functions, and 9,000 Joules are available for the transfer of energy to the next trophic level. The zooplankton, which feeds on phytoplankton, consumes 1,800 Joules of energy from the phytoplankton and uses 900 Joules for its own energy needs. To build the ecological pyramid of energy, follow the instructions: 1. Calculate the energy transfer efficiency between phytoplankton and zooplankton. 2. Graphically represent the ecological pyramid of energy for the three mentioned trophic levels, using a scale of 1 cm for every 1,000 Joules of energy. Make sure to include the quantities of energy available and consumed at each trophic level. Justify the importance of the ecological pyramid of energy in understanding trophic relationships and in planning conservation and management strategies for aquatic ecosystems.

Ecological pyramids are graphical representations of the trophic relationships existing in an ecosystem. They are used to illustrate the distribution of energy, number of organisms, or biomass at different trophic levels. Considering the importance of preserving and conserving biodiversity and human action in the sustainability of the planet, what is the main objective of ecological pyramids?

The format of the Number Pyramid may vary depending on the data presented. Some models are more common than others, but they all have one common characteristic: the base of the pyramid is larger than its top. Why does this happen?

The degradation of ecosystems and the loss of biodiversity can compromise the functionality of ecological pyramids, as well as the balance of ecosystems. First, explain what ecological pyramids are and identify the three main types. Then, discuss how human actions can affect these ecological pyramids and, consequently, ecosystems. Finally, emphasize the importance of environmental policies for ensuring the sustainability of the planet.