trophic transfer
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
The passing of energy or a substance, such as a pollutant, from one level of a food chain to the next as animals eat each other.
Usage notes
Energy lost at each stage of trophic transfer is one reason food chains rarely extend beyond four or five levels.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "_____ explains why mercury levels are often highest in large predatory fish near the top of the food chain."
Answer: trophic transfer
In your own words, what does "trophic transfer" mean?
The passing of energy or a substance, such as a pollutant, from one level of a food chain to the next as animals eat each other.
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