Question

17 the graph below shows the change in the total ecosystem biomass over time. change in biomass total ecosystem biomass time question: this overall ecosystem change was most likely caused by a rapid decline in the populations of organisms at which trophic level? (2 pt) a decomposer b primary consumer c tertiary consumer d producer

Explanation:

Producers form the base of the food - chain and provide energy and biomass to the entire ecosystem. A decline in producer populations would lead to a decrease in available energy and biomass throughout the ecosystem, causing an overall decline in ecosystem biomass as shown in the graph. Decomposers recycle nutrients, primary consumers eat producers, and tertiary consumers eat other consumers, but the root cause of a major decline in overall biomass is most likely a decrease in producers.

Answer:

D. producer