Question

Read the given statements and select the correct option.
Statement 1: In an aquatic ecosystem, pyramid of biomass is inverted.
Statement 2: Biomass depends upon reproductive potential and longevity of individuals.

• A. Both statements are correct
• B. Statement 1 is correct but statement 2 is incorrect
• C. Statement 2 is incorrect but statement 1 is correct
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

In the aquatic ecosystem, the pyramid of biomass may be inverted. For example, the biomass of zooplankton is higher than that of phytoplankton as the life span of the former is longer and the latter multiply much faster though having a shorter life span. A number of generations of phytoplankton may thus be consumed by a single generation of zooplankton. Biomass of fish may still be larger as fishes are larger in size with longer life span and a number of generations of zooplankton can be consumed by fishes. However, during transfer, only 10 % of the biomass of one generation is passed on to the next trophic level.