Sunlight Is the Principal Source of Energy That Sustains Most Ecosystems
- Sunlight is the primary energy source for most ecosystems.
- Plants, algae, and cyanobacteria capture sunlight through photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in carbon compounds like glucose.
- This energy moves through the ecosystem as organisms consume plants and are, in turn, consumed by others.
Sunlight is the primary energy source for most ecosystems, but not all.
Exceptions: Ecosystems Without Sunlight
While sunlight powers most ecosystems, some thrive in complete darkness.
1. Deep Ocean Ecosystems
- Hydrothermal Vents: Found on the ocean floor, these vents release hot, mineral-rich water.
- Chemosynthesis: Instead of sunlight, bacteria use chemical energy from reactions like the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide to produce organic compounds.
Definition
Chemosynthesis
The process by which certain organisms (like sulfur bacteria) use energy from inorganic molecules (such as hydrogen sulfide) to produce food in the absence of sunlight.
In the Pacific Ocean, hydrothermal vents support communities of giant tube worms, clams, and shrimp, all relying on chemosynthetic bacteria.
