Question

Secondary productivity is the rate of formation of new organic matter by

• A. consumer
• B. producer
• C. decompose
• D. parasite

Answer 1

The correct option is A

consumer

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

Option A:

1. The rate of energy fixation by biomass production by heterotrophs is known as secondary productivity.
2. It depends on consumers.
3. It can be expressed in units of mass per volume per unit time, such as grams per square meter per day.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B:

1. As producers are known for generating food via the process of photosynthesis through pigments such as chlorophyll.
2. They are responsible for primary production.
3. Thus, it is an incorrect option.

Option C:

1. Decomposers in an ecosystem are known to degrade and decompose the dead and decaying organic matter in an ecosystem.
2. They are not responsible for the secondary productivity in an ecosystem.
3. Thus, it is an incorrect option.

Option D:

1. Parasites are organisms that feed on host organisms and survive upon them.
2. Hence, it is an incorrect option.

Final answer: Secondary productivity is the rate of formation of new organic matter by consumers.