Question

Marine Science-
The amount of energy transferred from the primary producer to the primary consumer is...
a.) 100%
b.) 10%
c.) 1%
d.) .1%

Answer 1

I know it is not 100% because that would violate the Laws of Thermodynamics

So the primary producer would be the first in the trophic levels. It is the autotrophs, which we know mostly as the plants or species that have the ability to harness energy from the sun. The Primary consumer then would be the group of species that consume the primary producers, typically these are the herbivores, but omnivores like humans are included in it.

Answer 2

I am not sure how much energy transfer there would be, but I would guess about 10%

Answer 3

Thank you so much @nincompoop

Answer 4

I would refer to a textbook, if I were you. I will look at my ecology texts and find out if they even mention such a thing.

Answer 5

Yes. I've confirmed that it is 10%
It is, however, only a general rule of thumb. That is for simplicity and should not be taken as a matter of fact in every consumption across trophic levels.

Answer 6

I've attached a corresponding paper to support that the general rule of thumb for consumption efficiency from the First trophic level to second is generally considered as 10%

I've checked on two textbooks. 3rd Edition of Ecology by Michael Cain and 8th edition of the Elements of Ecology by Thomas and Robert Smith.

Answer 7

Thank you so much!! @nincompoop

Answer 8

please read the attachment I've included

Answer 9

b