Question

(b) “The detritus food chain may be connected to the grazing food chain at some levels in an ecosystem.” Give an example in support of the statement.
[0.5cm]

Hint:

The interconnection between food chains highlights the importance of decomposers in transferring energy and nutrients to primary and higher trophic levels.

Answer 1

Dead plants and organic detritus are decomposed into nutrients by soil microorganisms. These nutrients are absorbed by plants, which serve as producers in the grazing food chain. Additionally, organisms like earthworms feed on detritus and are eaten by higher trophic-level organisms, linking the two chains. This interconnection emphasizes energy and nutrient flow, where waste materials are recycled into food chains, supporting ecosystem sustainability. The detritus food chain complements the grazing food chain by utilizing decomposed matter efficiently. % Quick tip