At higher and higher trophic levels, there are usually ________ and ________ animals.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As energy is lost at each trophic level through metabolic processes, only a fraction of it is passed on to the next level. Therefore, there is less energy available to support a greater number of animals. Larger animals at higher trophic levels are able to obtain their energy needs from consuming a smaller number of prey, but they also require more energy overall to sustain themselves. Therefore, there are fewer, but larger, animals at higher trophic levels.

At Higher and Higher Trophic Levels, There Are Usually ________