Which is the correct path of energy flow in an ecosystem?

Options

A. `"Producers" to "Carnivores" to "Herbivores" to "Decomposers"`
B. `"Producers" to "Herbivores" to "Carnivores" to "Decomposers"`
C. `"Herbivores" to "Carnivores" to " Producers" to "Decomposer"`
D. `"Herbivores" to "Producers" to "Carnivores" to "Decomposers"`

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Producers**: The energy flow in an ecosystem begins with producers, which are primarily green plants. They perform photosynthesis to convert sunlight into chemical energy, creating food in the form of glucose.

2. **Understand the Role of Herbivores**: The energy created by producers is then transferred to herbivores, also known as primary consumers. Herbivores feed on the plants and plant products, utilizing the energy stored in the plant matter.

3. **Recognize the Carnivores**: Next in the energy flow are the carnivores, referred to as secondary consumers. These animals feed on herbivores, obtaining energy from the flesh of the primary consumers.

4. **Incorporate Decomposers**: Finally, the energy flow culminates with decomposers, which include organisms like bacteria and fungi. They break down dead and decaying matter, returning nutrients to the soil and completing the cycle of energy flow in the ecosystem.

5. **Summarize the Energy Flow Path**: The correct path of energy flow in an ecosystem can be summarized as follows:
- Producers (green plants) →
- Herbivores (primary consumers) →
- Carnivores (secondary consumers) →
- Decomposers.