Question:

Primary productivity in an ecosystem refers to the rate of generation of \rule{2cm{0.15mm} .}

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Key idea: Primary productivity = Rate of biomass production by producers
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • oxygen
  • carbon dioxide
  • detritus
  • biomass
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation


Concept: Primary productivity is a key concept in ecosystem ecology and refers to the rate at which producers (autotrophs like plants and algae) synthesize organic matter.
• It is the rate of production of biomass per unit area per unit time.
• It depends on factors like light, temperature, water, and nutrients.
• It includes:
• Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)
• Net Primary Productivity (NPP = GPP - respiration)

Step 1:
Understand the term productivity.
Productivity refers to the amount of organic matter produced.

Step 2:
Identify what is generated.
Plants convert solar energy into chemical energy stored as organic matter (biomass).

Step 3:
Analyze options.
• (A) Oxygen: By-product, not productivity measure
• (B) Carbon dioxide: Used, not produced
• (C) Detritus: Dead organic matter
• (D) Biomass: Correct

Step 4:
Conclusion.
Thus, primary productivity refers to the rate of biomass generation. Final Answer: Option (D)
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