Compare the three types of ecological pyramids and how

well they describe ecosystem structure. Identify which

ones can be inverted and give an example of an inverted

pyramid for each

Short Answer

Expert verified

The three types of ecological pyramids are:

(i.) Pyramid of number

(ii.) Pyramid of biomass

(iii.) Pyramid of energy

Step by step solution

01

Step 1. Given information

Ecological pyramid is graphical representation which is used for representing the relationship between living organisms at different trophic level.

02

Step 2. Explanation

Ecological pyramids represents the relation between the living organisms at different trophic level . On that basis it is classified into three types:

(a.) Pyramid of number- This pyramid represents the number of individual at each trophic level. It can be inverted in case of parasitic food chain.

(b.) Pyramid of biomass - This pyramid represents the organic matter present at each trophic level. It can be inverted in pond or lake ecosystem.

(c.) Pyramid of energy- Pyramid of energy is always upright because the energy always flow in one direction.

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