Question

Describe the food chain and food web with examples.

Hint:

A food chain is simple and linear, while a food web is complex and interconnected — both are vital for the flow of energy in an ecosystem.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of food chain.
A food chain is a sequence of organisms where one organism is eaten by another for energy transfer. Energy flows from producers to consumers in a single pathway.
Step 2: Example of food chain.
\[ \text{Grass} \rightarrow \text{Grasshopper} \rightarrow \text{Frog} \rightarrow \text{Snake} \rightarrow \text{Eagle} \] Here, energy flows from plants (producers) to herbivores (primary consumers), then to carnivores (secondary and tertiary consumers).
Step 3: Definition of food web.
A food web is a network of interlinked food chains where different organisms depend on multiple sources of food. It represents how energy flows through an entire ecosystem in multiple directions.
Step 4: Example of food web.
In a grassland ecosystem: \[ \text{Grass} \rightarrow \text{Deer} \rightarrow \text{Tiger} \] and \[ \text{Grass} \rightarrow \text{Grasshopper} \rightarrow \text{Frog} \rightarrow \text{Snake} \rightarrow \text{Hawk} \] These interconnected food chains form a food web.
Step 5: Importance of food web.
- Maintains ecological balance.
- Provides stability to the ecosystem.
- Helps in recycling nutrients through various organisms.
Step 6: Conclusion.
A food chain shows a single energy pathway, whereas a food web provides a complete picture of energy transfer and interdependence among organisms in an ecosystem.