Energy in Ecosystems

12 flashcards covering energy flow in ecosystems, including producers, consumers, and decomposer/detritivore/scavenger roles.

What is the ultimate source of energy for life in an ecosystem?

The Sun (the Sun's energy) is the ultimate source.

What are producers also called?

Autotrophs (primary producers).

How do producers obtain energy?

From nonliving sources such as sunlight or chemical energy.

What role do producers play in ecosystems?

They provide energy for other organisms and form the base of the food web.

What are consumers?

Organisms that obtain energy by eating other living or once-living resources; also called heterotrophs.

Name the main consumer dietary categories.

Herbivores, Carnivores, and Omnivores.

Define herbivore.

An organism that eats plant parts.

Define carnivore.

An organism that eats other animals.

Define omnivore.

An organism that eats both plants and animals.

What is a decomposer?

An organism that breaks down dead organic matter and recycles nutrients.

What is a detritivore?

An organism that feeds on detritus (decaying organic matter).

What is a scavenger?

An organism that consumes dead animals (carrion) or recently dead matter.