An ecosystem consists of all the organisms and the physical environment with which they interact. Energy flows through trophic levels from producers to consumers, with only about 10% of energy transferred between levels. This simulation demonstrates population dynamics and energy flow in a simplified food web.
Autotrophs like plants that convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. They form the base of the ecosystem.
Herbivores that feed on producers. Examples include rabbits, deer, and insects. They receive energy from plants.
Carnivores that feed on herbivores. Examples include frogs, small birds, and spiders. They receive energy from primary consumers.
Top predators that feed on secondary consumers. Examples include eagles, sharks, and lions. They sit at the top of the food chain.
Only about 10% of energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next. The rest is lost as:
Understanding trophic cascades helps protect endangered species.
Sustainable harvesting based on food web dynamics.
Ecosystem models predict responses to environmental changes.
Managing pests through natural predators instead of pesticides.