Question

What is the starting material for a detritus food chain?

Options

• Soil particles and inorganic minerals

• Dead plants and animal bodies

• Living plant biomass and green vegetation

• Herbivorous insects and small animals

Answer 1

A detritus food chain begins with dead plants and animal bodies, which serve as the primary organic material. This dead organic matter (detritus) is then broken down by microorganisms and consumed by detritivores, distinguishing it from a grazing food chain that starts with living plants.