If producer is a large tree that supports a number of herbivorous animals which are further attacked by ectoparasites, the pyramid of number shall be

Options

A. Inverted
B. Upright
C. Irregular
D. Spindle shapped

Answer

To solve the question regarding the shape of the pyramid of numbers when a large tree (the producer) supports a number of herbivorous animals, which are further attacked by ectoparasites, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Trophic Levels**:
- The first trophic level consists of the producer, which is the large tree.
- The second trophic level consists of herbivorous animals that feed on the tree.
- The third trophic level consists of ectoparasites that feed on the herbivorous animals.

2. **Analyze the Population at Each Trophic Level**:
- In this scenario, the large tree (producer) is singular or relatively few in number compared to the herbivores that feed on it.
- The herbivorous animals are more numerous than the tree since they rely on it for food.
- The ectoparasites are even more numerous than the herbivorous animals as they can infest many individuals.

3. **Determine the Shape of the Pyramid of Numbers**:
- A pyramid of numbers is considered "upright" when the number of producers is the highest, followed by fewer herbivores, and even fewer carnivores.
- Conversely, it is "inverted" when the number of producers is low compared to the number of herbivores, and the number of herbivores is low compared to the number of ectoparasites.
- In this case, since the tree (producer) has a lower number than the herbivores, and the herbivores have a lower number than the ectoparasites, the pyramid will be inverted.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the shape of the pyramid of numbers in this scenario is inverted.

### Final Answer:
The pyramid of number shall be **inverted** (Option A).

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