NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Which of the following statements correctly describes Net Primary Productivity (NPP) of an ecosystem?
Options
- AIt is the rate of formation of new organic matter by consumers.
- BIt is the available biomass for the consumption to heterotrophs.
- CIt is the total rate of capture of solar energy by producers during photosynthesis.
- DIt is the amount of inorganic nutrients absorbed by plants from the soil.
Correct answer
B. It is the available biomass for the consumption to heterotrophs.
Step-by-step solution
Gross primary productivity (GPP) of an ecosystem is the rate of production of organic matter during photosynthesis. A considerable amount of GPP is utilized by plants in respiration. Gross primary productivity minus respiration losses (R), is the net primary productivity (NPP). GPP - R = NPP Net primary productivity is the available biomass for the consumption to heterotrophs (herbivores and decomposers). Secondary productivity is defined as the rate of formation of new organic matter by consumers. Answer: It is th