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Question #46009
The Question
Read the following statements regarding energy flow and food chains in an ecosystem. Which of the following statements is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
In a terrestrial ecosystem, a much larger fraction of energy flows through the Detritus Food Chain (DFC) than through the Grazing Food Chain (GFC).
- B.
The rate of formation of new organic matter by saprotrophic fungi and bacteria in the DFC is considered primary productivity since they occupy the first living trophic level of this chain.
- C.
The detritus food chain may be connected with the grazing food chain at some levels, as some organisms of the DFC are prey to GFC animals.
- D.
Decomposers meet their energy requirements by degrading detritus, during which a significant portion of energy is lost as metabolic heat.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Detritus Food Chain Dominance|Productivity Ratios|Primary Succession Facilitation
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: The strict definition of Primary vs.
Secondary Productivity based on nutritional strategy (Autotroph vs.
Heterotroph) rather than mere position in a food chain.
Common Misconception: Students often assume that the first living organism in any food chain exhibits primary productivity.
In the DFC, the first living organisms are decomposers (heterotrophs), meaning their biomass generation is secondary productivity, despite them being the foundational living trophic level of that specific chain.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Ecosystem - Class 12 |
| Concept | Secondary Productivity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |