Explain why quaternary consumers occupy the top position in the pyramid of energy.

Energy is lost ascending each trophic level of the pyramid of energy. Therefore, when quaternary consumers eat tertiary consumers, most of the energy stored in the tertiary consumers' bodies is lost and only 10-15% is passed on to the quaternary consumers. Quaternary consumers, meanwhile, occupy the top position in the pyramid of energy because nothing preys upon them in turn.

the answer is lactic acid from anaerobic respiration. the acid in lactic acid is what creates sore and burning muscles. if you think about how acid burns that will give you a clue for questions like this.