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In an ecosystem:...

In an ecosystem:

A

Primary producers are more than primary consumers

B

Primary consumers are larger than primary producers

C

Secondary consumers are larger than primary

D

Primary consumers are least depend on primary producers

Text Solution

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The correct Answer is:
**Step-by-Step Solution:** 1. **Understanding Ecosystem Basics**: An ecosystem is defined as a structural and functional unit of nature where various species of living organisms coexist and interact with one another. 2. **Identifying Ecological Pyramids**: Ecological pyramids are tools used to visualize the relationships between different trophic levels in an ecosystem's food chain. These pyramids can represent energy, biomass, or population at each level. 3. **Trophic Levels**: In an ecological pyramid, the base consists of primary producers (green plants) that perform photosynthesis. As we ascend the pyramid, we encounter primary consumers (herbivores) that feed on these producers, followed by secondary consumers (carnivores) that feed on the primary consumers. 4. **Analyzing the Statements**: The question presents four statements regarding the relationships in an ecosystem. We need to evaluate each statement based on our understanding of ecological principles. 5. **Evaluating Statement A**: The first statement claims that primary producers will always be more numerous than primary consumers. This is correct because, in most ecosystems, the number of producers (plants) is significantly greater than that of consumers (herbivores). This is due to the energy transfer inefficiency, where only about 10% of energy is passed to the next trophic level, necessitating a larger biomass of producers to support a smaller biomass of consumers. 6. **Evaluating Other Statements**: - The second statement suggests that consumers are larger than producers. This is incorrect; size does not correlate directly with trophic levels. - The third statement claims that secondary consumers are larger than primary consumers. This is also incorrect as size varies independently of trophic level. - The fourth statement asserts that primary consumers depend the least on producers. This is false; primary consumers are entirely dependent on producers for their energy. 7. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluations, the correct statement is that primary producers (green plants) will always be more numerous than primary consumers (herbivores). Therefore, the answer is option A.
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