Which group of organisms has the greatest biomass in a terrestrial food chain?

• A. Decomposers
• B. Producers
• C. Primary consumers
• D. Secondary consumers

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is producers, which possess the greatest biomass in a terrestrial food chain. Producers, such as plants and phytoplankton, are responsible for converting sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. They form the foundation of the food chain by providing the necessary energy and nutrients for all other levels of consumers that rely on them for food.

In ecosystems, producers account for the largest biomass because they are abundant and have high productivity rates. Their ability to generate organic matter allows them to support a variety of primary consumers—herbivores that eat plants. The subsequent levels, such as primary and secondary consumers, depend on the energy and biomass provided by these producers, often resulting in a decrease in biomass at each subsequent trophic level due to energy losses through metabolism and heat.

Understanding this pyramid structure helps clarify why producers dominate in terms of biomass in terrestrial ecosystems. They establish the energy flow and nutrient cycling that sustains all other forms of life within the ecosystem.