Summary
A linear sequence showing who eats whom, beginning with a producer.
In depth
Typical chains have 3 to 5 links because energy is lost at each step. Arrows show direction of energy flow (from prey to predator). Grazing chains begin with living plants; detrital chains begin with dead matter.
Chains are shown with arrows pointing in the direction energy flows. Chain length is limited by energy and also by predator size. Detritus chains often carry more energy than grazing chains in forests.
Remember: decomposers act on every level.
Frequently asked questions
What is Food Chain?
A linear sequence showing who eats whom, beginning with a producer.
Which area of biology covers Food Chain, and how advanced is it?
Food Chain 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 Consumers, Energy Pyramid, Ecosystem.
Can you give an example of Food Chain?
Grass to grasshopper to frog to snake to hawk.
What should I learn before Food Chain?
Food Chain 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 Food Chain?
The closest topics to Food Chain are Consumers, Energy Pyramid, Ecosystem, Biomagnification. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Food Chain?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Food Chain. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Food Chain different from Consumers?
Food Chain: A linear sequence showing who eats whom, beginning with a producer. Consumers: Heterotrophs that obtain energy by eating other organisms: primary, secondary and tertiary consumers. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Food Chain 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 Consumers and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.