How does the energy flow in an ecosystem?

The flow of energy in an ecosystem follows the general path of energy transfer from one trophic level to another. Here’s how it typically flows:

1. Primary producers (Autotrophs):These are usually plants and algae that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

2. Primary consumers (Herbivores):These are animals that consume primary producers (plants or algae) for energy.

3. Secondary consumers (Carnivores or omnivores):These are animals that eat primary consumers.

4. Tertiary consumers (Carnivores): These are animals that eat secondary consumers.

5. Decomposers (Detritivores and decomposers): These are organisms like bacteria and fungi that break down dead organic matter (detritus) and waste products, returning nutrients to the soil or water.

The flow of energy starts with the primary producers, who convert sunlight into chemical energy. This energy is then passed from one trophic level to the next as organisms are consumed by higher trophic levels. At each level, some energy is lost as heat during metabolic processes and inedible parts, which limits the length of food chains in an ecosystem.