Section E: Solve the case-based question given below.
Modern agriculture uses chemical fertilizers and pesticides to increase crop production. These chemicals enter the soil and water sources. Plants absorb them from the soil, while aquatic organisms take them from polluted water bodies.
Since these chemicals are non-biodegradable, they accumulate in the tissues of organisms. As one organism feeds on another, the concentration of harmful chemicals increases at every trophic level. Ultimately, human beings, who are at the top of the food chain, accumulate the highest amount of these toxic substances, leading to serious health hazards.
Since these chemicals are non-biodegradable, they accumulate in the tissues of organisms. As one organism feeds on another, the concentration of harmful chemicals increases at every trophic level. Ultimately, human beings, who are at the top of the food chain, accumulate the highest amount of these toxic substances, leading to serious health hazards.
i. What is the process called by which harmful chemicals increase at higher levels of a food chain?
The process is called.
ii. Why do non-biodegradable chemicals remain in the food chain for a long time?
Because they .
iii. The position occupied by organisms in a food chain is called .
iv. Humans belong to which category in the food chain?.
v. State one harmful effect of pesticide accumulation in humans.