Definition
noun
A graphical representation in the shape of a pyramid to show the feeding relationship of groups of organisms, and the flow of energy or biomass through the different trophic levels in a given ecosystem
Supplement
Ecological pyramid is a graphical representation in the form of a pyramid showing the feeding relationship of groups of organisms. It is often represented in a way that the producers are at the bottom level and then proceeds through the various trophic levels in which the highest is on top.
Ecological pyramid also shows the flow of energy or biomass at each trophic level in a particular ecosystem. Biomass pertains to the amount of living or organic matter in an organism. Biomass pyramids are shaped that way to show that biomass is largest at the base, and decreasing in amount as it goes through the apex. The two types of biomass pyramids are the upright and the inverted. The upright pyramid is found in most ecosystems. It results when the combined weight of producers is larger than the combined weight of consumers. An inverted type results when the combined weight of producers is smaller than the combined weight of consumers.
Synonym(s):
- trophic pyramid
- eltonian pyramid
- energy pyramid
- food pyramid
See also:
