To determine the conversion efficiency from herbivores to carnivores, we need to understand that energy transfer across trophic levels in an ecosystem involves significant loss. Based on ecological principles, energy is lost at various stages such as respiration, heat loss, and waste production.
Among the options provided:
- Option a: [tex]\(1-5 \%\)[/tex]
- Option b: [tex]\(0.5-1 \%\)[/tex]
- Option c: [tex]\(7-12 \%\)[/tex]
- Option d: [tex]\(15-20 \%\)[/tex]
The least efficient conversion typically occurs between herbivores and carnivores due to the energy pyramid effect, where each successive trophic level transfers a smaller percentage of energy to the next level.
The correct answer reflects the fact that only a small fraction of energy consumed by herbivores is converted into biomass that carnivores can use. After considering all the options and the ecological efficiency principle:
The best answer is:
b. [tex]\(0.5-1 \%\)[/tex]
