UPSC Prelims 2021 · Question 28 of 97

UPSC Prelims 2021 question on Detritivores Organisms

Which of the following are detritivores?

1. Earthworms

2. Jellyfish

3. Millipedes

4. Seahorses

5. Woodlice

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  1. 1, 2 and 4 only
  2. 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
  3. 1, 3 and 5 only
  4. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer

Answer: C. 1, 3 and 5 only

Verdict

Correct statements: 1, 3 and 5 only → Option (c).

Analysis

Detritivores are heterotrophs that obtain nutrients by consuming detritus. There are many kinds of invertebrates, vertebrates and plants that carry out coprophagy. By doing so, all these detritivores contribute to decomposition and the nutrient cycles.

Examples of detritivores are earthworms, blowflies, millipedes, maggots, and woodlice.

Statement by statement

Statement 1 – CORRECT: Earthworms are classic examples of detritivores.

Statement 2 – INCORRECT: Jellyfish are common secondary consumers, not detritivores.

Statement 3 – CORRECT: Millipedes are detritivores feeding on dead plant matter.

Statement 4 – INCORRECT: Seahorse is considered a secondary consumer. They occupy a middle position in their food chain. Seahorses do not have teeth; they suck in their food and swallow it whole. Their prey includes plankton, small fish and small crustaceans such as shrimp and copepods.

Statement 5 – CORRECT: Woodlice are detritivores.

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