Ecological Pyramids

Ecological Pyramids

A key to understanding the structure and function of
ecosystems

Intended
Learning Outcomes

At
the end of this session, students will be able to

• Explain ecological pyramids

• Classify ecological pyramids

• Explain consequences of ecological
pyramids and ecosystem function

• Explain Bio-magnification

Content

• Ecological Pyramids

• Types of ecological pyramids

• Advantage and disadvantages of ecological
pyramids

• Bio-magnification

What are
Ecological Pyramids?

• Ecological pyramids are graphical
representations of the trophic structure of ecosystems.

• Trophic levels are the feeding position
in a food chain such as primary producers, herbivore, primary carnivore, etc.

Types of
ecological pyramid

Three types of ecological pyramids can
usually be distinguished namely:

1. Pyramid of numbers

2. Pyramid of biomass

3. Pyramid of productivity

Pyramid of
numbers

• Is the graphic representation of number
of individuals per unit area of various trophic levels

• Large numbers of producers tend to form
the base

• Lower numbers of top carnivores occupy
the tip