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Related Concept Videos

Trophic Levels01:35

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All organisms in an ecosystem occupy a trophic level in the food chain. The lowest level consists of primary producers, which synthesize their food from either solar or chemical energy. Each subsequent level obtains energy from the levels below. Detritivores can occupy any of the levels above primary producers.
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Trophic level transfer efficiency (TLTE) is a measure of the total energy transfer from one trophic level to the next. Due to extensive energy loss as metabolic heat, an average of only 10% of the original energy obtained is passed on to the next level. This pattern of energy loss severely limits the possible number of trophic levels in a food chain.
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When a ligand binds to a cell-surface receptor, the receptor's intracellular domain changes shape, which may either activate its enzyme function or allow its binding to other molecules. The initial signal is amplified by most signal transduction pathways. This means that a single ligand molecule can activate multiple molecules of a downstream target. Proteins that relay a signal are most commonly phosphorylated at one or more sites, activating or inactivating the protein. Kinases catalyze...
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Once a ligand binds to a receptor, the signal is transmitted through the membrane and into the cytoplasm. The continuation of a signal in this manner is called signal transduction. Signal transduction only occurs with cell-surface receptors, which cannot interact with most components of the cell, such as DNA. Only internal receptors can interact directly with DNA in the nucleus to initiate protein synthesis. When a ligand binds to its receptor, conformational changes occur that affect the...
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Operational amplifiers (op-amps) are versatile electronic components that can be interconnected in a cascade - one after another in a linear sequence. This cascading is possible due to their infinite input resistance and zero output resistance, allowing them to maintain their input-output relationships even when connected in series.
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What is a Trophic Cascade?

William J Ripple1, James A Estes2, Oswald J Schmitz3

  • 1Global Trophic Cascades Program, Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.

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This summary is machine-generated.

Trophic cascades are key ecological concepts, but inconsistent definitions hinder progress. This study proposes a clear, widely applicable definition to improve scientific understanding and conservation efforts.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Ecosystem Dynamics
  • Food Web Interactions

Background:

  • Trophic cascades are highly influential ecological concepts, central to over 2000 scientific articles since the 1980s.
  • Despite widespread use, fundamental questions persist regarding the precise definition and scope of trophic cascades.
  • Inconsistent terminology obstructs scientific advancement and the practical application of this concept in conservation and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address the ambiguity surrounding the definition of trophic cascades.
  • To propose a clear and broadly applicable definition that excludes extraneous interactions.
  • To establish a common language for trophic cascade research and application.

Main Methods:

  • Conceptual analysis and synthesis of existing literature on trophic cascades.
  • Development of a precise definition for trophic cascades.
  • Discussion of the implications of the proposed definition and related terms.

Main Results:

  • A proposed definition for trophic cascades is presented.
  • Key related terms are defined to support the proposed definition.
  • The definition aims for broad applicability while maintaining specificity.

Conclusions:

  • A standardized definition of trophic cascades is crucial for advancing ecological science.
  • Clear definitions enhance the utility of trophic cascade concepts in conservation and management.
  • Establishing a common lexicon will benefit scientists, policymakers, and conservation practitioners.