Question

In a comparative study of terrestrial ecosystem and aquatic ecosystem, which of the following may be observed?

• A. Number of trophic levels is usually more in terrestrial ecosystem than aquatic ecosystem
• B. Number of trophic levels is usually less in terrestrial ecosystem than aquatic ecosystem
• C. Both ecosystems always have the same number of trophic levels
• D. Number of trophic levels are indefinite

Answer 1

The correct option is B Number of trophic levels is usually less in terrestrial ecosystem than aquatic ecosystem

Terrestrial ecosystem includes grassland, deserts, decidous forest,etc. Terrestrial ecosystems usually have lesser number of trophic levels than aquatic ecosystems. This difference between terrestrial and marine ecosystems (ocean ecosystem) is due to differences in the fundamental characteristics of land and marine primary organisms. Most terrestrial ecosystems have no more than five trophic levels, and marine ecosystems generally have seven.