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Question #46660
The Question
A terrestrial ecosystem undergoes a prolonged period of severe desiccation and near-freezing temperatures. Consequently, the overall energy flux across higher trophic levels is drastically reduced. Which of the following statements correctly identifies the primary physiological bottleneck and its ecological consequence?
Options
- A.
The secretion of extracellular enzymes by bacteria and fungi is inhibited, halting catabolism and choking the bottom-up energy flow through the Detritus Food Chain.
- B.
The lack of moisture prevents the enzyme-mediated leaching of water-soluble inorganic nutrients, directly starving the primary producers.
- C.
Low temperatures denature the intracellular enzymes of saprotrophs, accelerating humification but completely halting mineralization.
- D.
The Grazing Food Chain, which supports the majority of energy flow in terrestrial ecosystems, collapses due to the inhibition of detritivore activity.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Standing Crop|Phytoplankton|Zooplankton
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question tests the precise mechanisms of decomposition and ecosystem bioenergetics.
Students often fall for 'Common Half-Truths', such as assuming leaching is enzymatic, or confusing intracellular vs. extracellular digestion in saprotrophs.
The ultimate trap relies on the NCERT distinction that the DFC dominates terrestrial energy flow, whereas the GFC dominates aquatic energy flow.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Ecosystem - Class 12 |
| Concept | Productivity Ratios |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |