Higher levels of net primary productivity generally lead to which of the following?

Higher levels of net primary productivity (NPP) in an ecosystem provide a larger quantity of energy available for growth and reproduction for primary producers, such as plants and phytoplankton. This increase in energy availability supports a more complex food web, allowing for the presence of more trophic levels.

As primary producers generate more biomass, the energy can support a greater number of herbivores and, subsequently, a larger number of predators. More trophic levels typically indicate a more intricate interaction of species within the ecosystem. Additionally, higher NPP often correlates with increased species richness because diverse environments can support a wider variety of organisms, including those that occupy different niches and trophic levels.

These factors combined ultimately enhance the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem, encouraging a multitude of species to coexist and interact. This dynamic interplay contributes to stability and resilience within the ecosystem.