Question

State the difference between the first trophic level of detritus food chain and grazing food chain.

Solution:

The first trophic level of detritus food chain is often the dead and decaying organic matter whereas the grazing food chain starts with the living green plants.

The first trophic level organisms of detritus food chain are saprophytes whereas the starters of grazing food chain are producers.

Is that second point actually right? How can the organic matter and saprophytes be the same?Aren't saprophytes the consumers of detritus?
Correct me if i'm wrong.

Answer 1

The second point is not right.

In Detritus food chain:-The first trophic level of detritus food chain is the dead and decaying organic matter. Primary consumers form the next trophic level,they are 'detritivores' including protozoans, bacteria, fungi, etc which feed upon the detritus.

The "grazing" food chain includes the producers i.e green plants at first trophic level which is further consumed by primary consumers i.e herbivores. These herbivores form the next trophic level.