Question

Match List-I with List-II:

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A)-(II), (B)-(III), (C)-(I), (D)-(IV)
• B. (A)-(IV), (B)-(I), (C)-(III), (D)-(II)
• C. (A)-(III), (B)-(IV), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)
• D. (A)-(I), (B)-(IV), (C)-(III), (D)-(II)

Hint:

Trophic level mapping:
$T_1$ (Producers): Phytoplankton, Grass, Trees.
$T_2$ (Herbivores): Zooplankton, Cow, Deer.
$T_3$ (Primary Carnivores): Wolves, Small Birds, Fish.
$T_4$ (Top Carnivores): Lion, Man, Eagle.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
In an ecosystem, a trophic level represents the position occupied by an organism within a food chain based on its method of obtaining nourishment and energy.

Step 1: Identifying the First Trophic Level ($T_1$):
The first trophic level consists of primary producers (photoautotrophs) that fix solar energy into chemical energy.
In aquatic ecosystems, phytoplankton act as producers, while in terrestrial ecosystems, trees, grasses, and shrubs serve as producers.
Therefore, (C) Phytoplankton, trees corresponds to (II) First trophic level.

Step 2: Identifying the Second Trophic Level ($T_2$):
The second trophic level consists of primary consumers or herbivores that directly consume primary producers.
In aquatic ecosystems, zooplankton feed on phytoplankton, whereas cows and deer consume terrestrial vegetation.
Therefore, (B) Zooplankton, cow corresponds to (IV) Second trophic level.

Step 3: Identifying the Third Trophic Level ($T_3$):
The third trophic level comprises secondary consumers or primary carnivores that prey on herbivores.
Carnivorous birds, fishes, and wolves feed on primary consumers.
Therefore, (D) Birds, wolves corresponds to (I) Third trophic level.

Step 4: Identifying the Fourth Trophic Level ($T_4$):
The fourth trophic level contains tertiary consumers or top carnivores at the apex of the food chain.
Man and lions occupy apex predatory positions.
Therefore, (A) Man, lion corresponds to (III) Fourth trophic level.

Step 5: Compilation of Matches:
Matching combinations: (A)-(III), (B)-(IV), (C)-(II), (D)-(I).
This matches Option (C).