Photosynthesis is the dominant source of energy in most ecosystems through conversion of light to C-H bonds in organic material, and so the flow and fate or carbon is tightly linked to energy flow.

The way energy passes through an ecosystem is described as energy flow. Herbivores (plant eating animals) are primary consumers. Carnivores (animals who eat other animals) are secondary consumers ...

A major focus of the IBP was to quantify energy flow through trophic levels in various ecosystems, both aquatic and terrestrial, around the world. IBP Handbooks provided the basic methods for ...