What is the average transfer of efficiency for phytoplankton?

The average transfer efficiency for phytoplankton, often referred to as the ecological efficiency, is typically around 10%. This means that approximately 10% of the energy captured by phytoplankton through photosynthesis is transferred to the next trophic level, such as zooplankton. This efficiency can vary based on environmental conditions, nutrient availability, and specific phytoplankton species. Overall, the energy transfer through aquatic food webs tends to be lower than in terrestrial ecosystems.