In most communities, which of the following is greater in tertiary consumers as compared to secondary consumers?
A) Reproductive rates
B) Number of species
C) Total biomass
D) Body size
E) None of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tertiary consumers occupy a higher trophic level than secondary consumers and thus tend to have a greater body size. This is because they require more energy to sustain themselves and energy is lost at each trophic level, resulting in fewer organisms at higher levels. Reproductive rates and number of species tend to decrease at higher trophic levels, while total biomass may vary depending on the specific ecosystem.

In Most Communities, Which of the Following Is Greater in Tertiary