What are EcologicalPyramids?
Ecological pyramids are graphical representations
of relationships in ecosystems. They show the
distribution of energy, biomass, or numbers of
organisms at different trophic levels.
4.
TYPES OF ECOLOGICALPYRAMIDS
1. Pyramid of Energy
2. Pyramid of Biomass
3. Pyramid of Numbers
5.
This Photo byUnknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC
6.
Pyramid of Energy
•• Shows energy flow across trophic levels.
• • Energy decreases (10% Rule): Only 10% of energy is
passed to the next level.
• • Always upright.
7.
PYRAMID OF BIOMASS
•• Represents total living organic matter at each
trophic level.
• • Measured in units like g/m² or kg/m².
• • Can be inverted (e.g., aquatic ecosystems).
9.
Pyramid of Numbers
• Shows the number of organisms at each trophic level.
• Can be upright (grassland ecosystems) or inverted (parasitic
food chains).
10.
LIMITATIONS OF ECOLOGICAL
PYRAMIDS
•• DO NOT ACCOUNT FOR DETRITIVORES AND DECOMPOSERS.
• • IGNORE SEASONAL AND SPATIAL VARIATIONS.
• • BIOMASS PYRAMID MAY NOT REFLECT ENERGY FLOW ACCURATELY.
11.
Importance of EcologicalPyramids
• • Help understand energy transfer and ecosystem
dynamics.
• • Highlight inefficiency in energy use.
• • Provide insights for conservation and sustainable
practices.
12.
Case Studies
• •Terrestrial Ecosystem: Forest food web.
• • Aquatic Ecosystem: Lake with phytoplankton,
zooplankton, and fish.
13.
Conclusion
• • Ecologicalpyramids visualize the structure and
functioning of ecosystems.
• • They highlight the interdependence of species and
energy flow.
• • Crucial for ecological studies and sustainable
management.
