How is energy typically transferred through a food chain?

Energy transfer in a food chain typically follows a pathway that reflects the flow of energy through different trophic levels, starting from producers and moving to various types of consumers, and then to detritivores.

Producers, such as plants and algae, harness energy from the sun through photosynthesis, creating organic matter that serves as the primary energy source for the ecosystem. These producers form the base of the food chain. Herbivores, or primary consumers, feed on these producers, obtaining energy directly from the plants. Following this, secondary consumers—predators that eat herbivores—receive energy from the primary consumers. Finally, detritivores and decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling energy and nutrients back into the ecosystem.

This flow of energy from producers, through consumers, and ultimately to detritivores illustrates a complete and efficient transfer of energy through different levels, highlighting the interdependence of various organisms within the food chain.