Which of the following have high assimilation efficiencies of over 90 percent?

The correct answer is Predatory spiders.

Key Points

• Predatory spiders have a high assimilation efficiency (over 90%) due to their ability to effectively convert prey biomass into their own biomass.
• Spiders are efficient predators, consuming prey with minimal energy wastage, which allows them to achieve high energy transfer rates.
• They utilize external digestion by secreting digestive enzymes, which enhances nutrient assimilation.
• Predatory spiders are important in regulating prey populations and maintaining ecological balance.

Additional Information

• Secondary carnivores: These are organisms that feed on primary carnivores. While they are efficient predators, their assimilation efficiency is generally lower than predatory spiders as they consume organisms with more complex energy pathways.
• Herbivores: Herbivores feed on plant material, which is difficult to digest due to the presence of cellulose and lignin. Their assimilation efficiency is typically lower (around 20–50%) compared to carnivores.
• Social insects: Social insects like ants and bees have specialized roles within colonies. Their efficiency depends on their dietary habits, but they generally do not achieve assimilation efficiencies as high as predatory spiders.