Net primary productivity is the primary productivity of an ecosystem, after subtracting energy lost in
A) dead plant tissues.
B) inedible plant tissues.
C) respiration by primary producers.
D) respiration by primary consumers.
E) inefficiencies of photosynthesis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Net primary productivity (NPP) is the amount of energy captured by primary producers (plants) through photosynthesis, minus the amount of energy they use in cellular respiration. Therefore, the option that subtracts respiration by primary producers (option C) is the correct choice. The other options do not accurately describe what NPP is measuring or subtracting.

Net Primary Productivity Is the Primary Productivity of an Ecosystem