InterviewSolution
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Taking the example of a lake as a simple aquatic ecosystem, interpret how various functions of this ecosystem are carried out. Make a food chain that is functional in this ecosystem. |
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Answer» (i) Productivity - conversion of inorganic into organic material with the help of solar energy by the autotrophs (ii) Energy flow - unidirectional movement of energy towards higher trophic level (and its dissipation and loss as heat to the environment) (iii) Decomposition - fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification, mineralization by bacteria, fungi and flagellates (abundant at the bottom of lake) (iv) Nutrient cycling - decomposition of dead matter to release the nutrients back to be re-used by the autotrophs Food chain in aquatic ecosystem (lake) Phytoplanktons → Zooplanktons → Small fish → Big fish |
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