Question

Name the type of food chains responsible for the flow of larger fraction of energy in an aquatic ecosystem and a terrestrial ecosystem, respectively. Mention any two differences between the two food chains.

Hint:

Energy in aquatic ecosystems flows mainly through grazing food chains, while detritus chains dominate terrestrial ecosystems.

Answer 1

• In aquatic ecosystems: Grazing food chain.
• In terrestrial ecosystems: Detritus food chain.
• Differences:
  • In the grazing food chain, energy flow begins from producers (phytoplankton or plants), while in detritus food chain, it begins from dead organic matter.
  • The grazing food chain is the major energy flow route in aquatic systems, whereas detritus food chain dominates in terrestrial systems.