Question

In which of the following ecosystems, detritus food chain (DFC) is the major conduit for energy flow?

• A. Pond Ecosystem
• B. River Ecosystem
• C. Forest Ecosystem
• D. Marine Ecosystem

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The detritus food chain (DFC) is the food chain in which energy flows through the decomposition of dead organic matter (detritus). It primarily involves detritivores and decomposers (like bacteria and fungi) breaking down organic material.

Among the options provided:

(1) Pond Ecosystem: In a pond ecosystem, the energy flow is mainly through the grazing food chain (GFC), with primary producers (like algae) supporting herbivores and carnivores.

(2) River Ecosystem: Similar to the pond ecosystem, the river ecosystem also has a more prominent grazing food chain with primary producers (like aquatic plants) being consumed by herbivores.

(3) Forest Ecosystem: The forest ecosystem relies heavily on the detritus food chain. The decomposition of fallen leaves, dead plants, and animals provides the primary source of energy, with decomposers like fungi and bacteria breaking down the organic matter. This makes the detritus food chain the major conduit for energy flow in forest ecosystems.

(4) Marine Ecosystem: While the marine ecosystem does have a detritus food chain, it is typically less significant than the grazing food chain, where phytoplankton form the base for herbivores and larger consumers.

Thus, the correct answer is (3) Forest Ecosystem, where the detritus food chain plays a major role in energy flow.

Answer 2

In forest ecosystems, the detritus food chain (DFC) plays a significant role due to the high amount of leaf litter, dead organisms, and other organic matter, which decomposers break down, fueling the DFC and sustaining energy flow.