Which of the following statements about productivity is correct?

Master your AICE Marine Science Paper 2 Exam. Dive deep into flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each query. Get exam-ready today!

Higher primary productivity indeed leads to more diverse ecosystems due to the increased availability of energy and resources that can support a greater number of species. In ecosystems where primary productivity is high, such as tropical rainforests and coral reefs, there is an abundance of plant growth (phytoplankton in marine environments, for example), which serves as the base of the food web. This surplus of energy allows for the support of various species at different trophic levels, from herbivores to top predators, promoting a higher level of biodiversity.

The concept relates to the idea that ecosystems with varied habitats and abundant food sources can sustain a wider array of organisms, each occupying different niches. Thus, as primary productivity increases, it often correlates positively with species richness and ecological complexity. This relationship underscores the importance of productivity in maintaining and enhancing biodiversity within ecosystems.

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