What does primary productivity measure?

Primary productivity specifically measures the process by which energy, primarily from sunlight, is converted into chemical energy in the form of biomass by photosynthetic organisms such as plants, algae, and some bacteria. This process is crucial for the energy flow in ecosystems, as it forms the basis of the food web.

When sunlight is captured through photosynthesis, it results in the production of organic compounds that serve as energy sources for other organisms, such as herbivores and carnivores. Thus, measuring primary productivity helps scientists assess the health and productivity of ecosystems, their capacity to support life, and their responses to environmental changes.

Understanding primary productivity is essential in fields such as ecology, agriculture, and climate science, as it directly impacts food supply, carbon cycling, and biodiversity.