What percent of energy does a small fish get from the sun
What percent
of energy a small fish gets from the sun can vary depending on its ecological role and habitat. However, in general, small fish obtain their energy indirectly from the sun through the food chain. They consume primary producers like algae or small plants that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. When small fish are then eaten by larger predatory fish or other animals, the energy from the sun is transferred up the food chain.
As energy transfers between trophic levels in an ecosystem, only a portion of the energy is passed on to the next level due to metabolic processes, heat loss, and other factors. This energy transfer efficiency between trophic levels is typically around 10%, meaning that only 10% of the energy is transferred from one level to the next.
Based on this information, it can be estimated that a small fish may receive approximately 10% of its total energy intake directly from the sun. However, it is important to note that this is a rough estimate and the percentage can vary depending on the specific ecosystem and food web dynamics.