Chapter 9, Problem 10STP

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

The heterotrophs are those organisms which cannot synthesize organic compounds such as carbohydrate from inorganic raw materials such as carbon dioxide and water. Therefore, they depend on other organisms for food to get energy. Heterotrophs may be herbivores, carnivores, omnivores and saprophytes.

Answer to Problem 10STP

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (D) omnivores.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (D) omnivore. Mice eat virtually everything. They are true omnivores. Mice prefer to eat plants and seeds like herbivores. But they also eat bones of deceased animals that they may encounter. Actually, mice eat everything and are true omnivores. Thus, the correct answer is an option (D).

The explanation for the incorrect answer :

Option (A) carnivores. Carnivores are the flesh eating animals which feeds only on other animals. Thus, this is an incorrect option.

Option (B) detrivore. A detrivore is a heterotrophic organism which obtains its nutrition by feeding on the organic matter from dead plant and animal. Thus, this is an incorrect answer.

Option (C) herbivore. Herbivores are those animals that feed directly on plant and its parts. Thus, this is an incorrect answer.