summary notes on the topic of ecosystems of module 6 of a level biology, covering every part of the specification.
diagrams included.
source: kerboodle a level biology textbook
- Clay : fine particles, easily waterlogged, clumps when wet
- Loam: retains water but not waterlogged
- Sandy: coarse,well-separated particles for free draining, no water retained, easily
eroded
BIOMASS TRANSFER
All organisms require source of energy to perform functions needed to survive
Sun: source of light energy converted into chemical energy by photosynthesis, which is
then transferred to other non-photosynthetic organisms as food.
Food chains + webs show transfer of biomass (mass of living/dead material) through
organisms
Each stage = trophic level
1st: producer (photosynthetic)
2nd: primary consumer eating a producer (herbivore)
Subsequent levels: consumers that obtain energy by feeding on other organisms
Rarely 4+ trophic levels: not sufficient biomass + stored energy left to support any further
organisms
Decomposers break down dead organisms, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem
Pyramid of numbers: represents number of organisms at each trophic level
Producers always at bottom with subsequent levels added above
3
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller erikakumar. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for £3.06. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.