Biology (11th Edition)

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 1259188132
ISBN 13: 978-1-25918-813-8

Chapter 57 - Dynamics of Ecosystems - Figure 57.13 - Inquiry Question - Page 1221: 1

Answer

An inverted pyramid of biomass can only be supported if the narrower, lower level is very rapidly replaced, as by very frequent cell divisions.

Work Step by Step

This is the case of the oceanic example in Fig. 57.13c. Phytoplankton reproduce so quickly that they can support a greater mass of herbivorous biomass.
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