A trophic cascade is the effect of the loss of ____________ on ____________.
A) detritivores; the abundance of decomposers
B) top consumers; the abundance of lower consumers and producers
C) producers; the abundance of primary consumers
D) top consumers; one another
E) flooding; terrestrial ecosystems

Question

A trophic cascade is the effect of the loss of  ____________ on ____________.
A)	detritivores; the abundance of decomposers
B)	top consumers; the abundance of lower consumers and producers
C)	producers; the abundance of primary consumers
D)	top consumers; one another
E)	flooding; terrestrial ecosystems

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Trophic cascade refers to the changes in the abundance or behavior of one level of a food chain that affects the abundance or behavior of the lower levels of the same food chain. The loss of top consumers can cause an increase in the abundance of lower consumers and producers, which can have further impacts on the ecosystem. Therefore, option B, which suggests the loss of top consumers affecting the abundance of lower consumers and producers, is the best choice.

A Trophic Cascade Is the Effect of the Loss of