Algae are small photosynthetic organisms found in aquatic ecosystems. Their cells produce a kind of oil. Scientists learned how to extract the oil to create fuel, which can be used in place of fossil fuels. Scientists think algae can produce 60 times more oil per acre than plants, like corn, that are commonly used to produce biofuel.
To produce algae oil, very large ponds were built for growing algae. However, scientists soon made two discoveries.
As the algae grew, it formed layers at the pond surface. These layers crowded and shaded one another.
Many insects and other consumers frequently entered the ponds.
Based on the two discoveries, what would likely be a problem for algae oil production?
A.
Crowding reduces access to food, so it makes algae less able to take in sugar and produce oil.
B.
Insects feed on algae, so all of the energy stored in algae oil is converted back into light energy.
C.
Consumers feed on algae, so the energy stored in algae oil is permanently lost from the environment.
D.
Shading reduces access to sunlight, so algae produce less sugar and are less able to store energy.