Explain why the number of organisms typically reduces along a food chain

The number of organisms reduces because between each level of the food chain about 10% of energy is lost through movement, through not the full organism on the previous level being eaten as bones and hair are not eaten. Furthermore, more energy is lost through respiration and through excretion meaning there is less energy, and so less organisms can profit from the energy they will get from consuming the organism in the previous level.

AS
Answered by Anna S. Biology tutor

7964 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the structural differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?


How are animals adapted for effective gas exchange?


Describe and explain how the secretion of ADH affects urine produced by the kidneys.


Explain why your genes might influence how drugs work in the body. (3)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning