Question

Why do most predators have higher assimilation efficiencies than herbivores?

a. Animal tissues contain more indigestible parts than plant tissues.
b. Using energy from animals is more efficient than using sunlight for energy.
c. Most animal tissues are easier to digest than plant tissues.
d. Most predators require more energy for respiration than herbivores.

Answer 1

Predators have higher assimilation efficiencies than herbivores because animal tissues are generally easier to digest than the complex carbohydrates found in plants, allowing predators to extract and assimilate nutrients more effectively with simpler digestive systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Most predators have higher assimilation efficiencies than herbivores because most animal tissues are easier to digest than plant tissues (option c). Herbivores must contend with complex plant carbohydrates like cellulose, which are hard to break down. This necessitates a longer and more complex digestive system in herbivores, including multiple stomachs in some species, to slowly extract nutrients. In contrast, predators consume diets rich in proteins and fats that are readily digested, requiring a simpler digestive tract. Because of this, predators can assimilate a larger percentage of the energy contained in their food compared to herbivores.