Why does only approximately 10% of energy transfer from one trophic level to the next consecutive level in an ecological pyramid of energy?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. the vast majority of energy is dissipated as metabolic heat and unconsumed biomass
- Step 1: According to Lindeman's ten percent law, energy transfer between trophic levels is ~10%. Step 2. Energy is lost through cellular respiration (heat), excretion, unconsumed parts (bones/roots), and kinetic locomotion. Answer: the vast majority of energy is dissipated as metabolic heat and unconsumed biomass. Why not the others: Heat energy cannot be recycled to the sun; carnivores extract energy efficiently; CO₂ absorption is not the limiting factor.
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