Question

Non-selective vs selective deposit feeders involve:

a) Non-discriminatory intake of organic matter vs specific consumption of nutrients
b) Specific intake of organic matter vs general consumption of nutrients
c) Active search for prey vs passive intake of organic matter
d) Absence of feeding behavior vs active hunting for food

Answer 1

Non-selective deposit feeders ingest sediment indiscriminately, while selective deposit feeders target specific types of nutrients or organic matter.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between non-selective and selective deposit feeders involves their feeding strategies and the specificity with which they consume nutrients. Non-selective deposit feeders, like sea cucumbers, consume organic matter indiscriminately as they process sediments from the ocean floor. In contrast, selective deposit feeders target specific types of organic matter or nutrients, showing a form of selectivity in their consumption. The correct answer to the student's question is: a) Non-discriminatory intake of organic matter vs specific consumption of nutrients. This feeds into a larger discussion about foraging behaviors and how they impact the flow of energy and nutrients through different ecosystem levels.