Energy flows through ecosystems in various forms as it moves between organisms. Solar energy is captured by producers like plants through photosynthesis and stored as chemical energy in carbon-carbon bonds. This energy then moves to primary consumers which eat the producers. Higher-level consumers eat the primary consumers, transporting the energy. Decomposers break down waste and release energy. Maintaining balance and biodiversity in ecosystems is important for sustaining crop production, as it ensures nutrient recycling, pest control, and soil health. Factors like resource availability can limit ecosystem functioning.