Ecological efficiency, described as the percentage of energy at one trophic level that ends up in tissue in the next level, is approximately ____ to ____%.

A) 1; 5
B) 1; 20
C) 5; 30
D) 10; 40
E) 50; 60

Ecological efficiency is typically around 5-30%. Only a small portion of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next level. The majority of the energy is lost through metabolic processes, heat dissipation, and waste. Choice A is too low, as more than 5% of energy is typically transferred. Choice E is too high, as less than 60% of energy is typically transferred. Choice B is also too high. Choice D is a possible alternative but includes a slightly higher range than the commonly accepted range.