Summary
Shows that only about ten percent of energy passes from one trophic level to the next.
In depth
Pyramids of energy are always upright because energy is lost as heat, in waste and in uneaten material. Pyramids of numbers can be inverted (one tree supports many insects) and pyramids of biomass can be inverted in the ocean (small phytoplankton with rapid turnover support larger biomass of zooplankton).
This explains why long food chains are rare, and why eating lower on the chain supports more people.
Energy lost as respiration, undigested material and unconsumed parts. Efficiency is lower for endotherms (about 1 to 2 percent) than ectotherms (about 10 percent).
Example: this is why top predators are rare.
Frequently asked questions
What is Energy Pyramid?
Shows that only about ten percent of energy passes from one trophic level to the next.
Which area of biology covers Energy Pyramid, and how advanced is it?
Energy Pyramid is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Trophic Levels, Consumers, Food Chain.
Can you give an example of Energy Pyramid?
10,000 kJ of grass yields about 1,000 kJ in cows and 100 kJ in human consumers.
What should I learn before Energy Pyramid?
Energy Pyramid is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Ecology that pair well with it include Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors.
What topics are related to Energy Pyramid?
The closest topics to Energy Pyramid are Trophic Levels, Consumers, Food Chain, Producers. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Energy Pyramid?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Energy Pyramid. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Energy Pyramid different from Trophic Levels?
Energy Pyramid: Shows that only about ten percent of energy passes from one trophic level to the next. Trophic Levels: The feeding position of an organism in a food chain, from producers upward. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Energy Pyramid step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Trophic Levels and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.