The "trophic cascade hypothesis" emphasizes the role of
A) nutrients in controlling primary productivity.
B) nutrients in controlling primary consumption.
C) consumers in controlling primary productivity.
D) grazing by herbivores in controlling ecosystem nutrient levels.
E) primary productivity in controlling primary and secondary consumption.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The trophic cascade hypothesis emphasizes that consumers (such as predators) can indirectly control primary productivity by suppressing the abundance or behavior of their prey, leading to increased plant growth. This is an example of top-down control, in contrast to bottom-up control where nutrients control primary productivity.

The "Trophic Cascade Hypothesis" Emphasizes the Role of