Answer: Greater species diversity and higher total biomass.
- A Greater species diversity and higher total biomass
- B Lower species diversity and much less total biomass
- C No nutrient cycling
- D A decrease in number of trophic levels
Correct answer: A. Greater species diversity and higher total biomass
Explanation: As succession proceeds, species diversity, total biomass and the complexity of the community generally increase toward the stable climax.
Energy pyramid showing a simple food chain (producer to herbivore to carnivore) with energy decreasing roughly tenfold at each trophic level.
Concept context
Ecosystems, food chains, energy flow, nutrient cycles, biodiversity, and conservation.