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What is the purpose of detritus or dead biomass in the food chain?

Options

  1. ATo serve as a source of energy for decomposers
  2. BTo serve as a source of food for producers
  3. CTo serve as a source of food for carnivores
  4. DTo serve as a source of energy for herbivores

Correct answer

A. To serve as a source of energy for decomposers

Step-by-step solution

Detritus or dead biomass serves as an energy source for decomposers. The important point to note is that the amount of energy decreases at successive trophic levels. When any organism dies it is converted to detritus or dead biomass that serves as an energy source for decomposers. Organisms at each trophic level depend on those at the lower trophic level for their energy demands.

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