Question
Citing lake as an example of a simple aquatic ecosystem, interpret how various functions of this ecosystem are carried out. Make a food chain that is functional in this ecosystem.
Productivity: Conversion of inorganic into organic material with the help of solar energy by the autotrophs.
Energy flow: Unidirectional movement of energy towards higher trophic level (and its dissipation and loss as heat to the environment).
Decomposition: Fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification, mineralization by bacteria, fungi and flagellates (abundant at the bottom of lake).
Nutrient cycling: Decomposition of dead matter to release the nutrients back to be re-used by the autotrophs.
Food chain in aquatic ecosystem (lake):
Phytoplanktons → Zooplanktons → Small fish → Big fish (Any other appropriate example).
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