Biological magnification of persistent toxins should be greatest in

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Biological magnification occurs when toxins accumulate at higher amounts in organisms at higher trophic levels. As one moves up the food chain, the concentration of toxins increases due to the consumption of contaminated prey. Therefore, the greatest biological magnification occurs in secondary carnivores, as they consume primary carnivores that have already accumulated toxins from their prey. Herbivores are at the lowest trophic level and do not typically accumulate high levels of persistent toxins, while detritivores primarily feed on decomposing organic matter and are not directly exposed to persistent toxins. Keystone species do not necessarily have a higher chance of accumulating persistent toxins as they are not defined by their trophic level.

Biological Magnification of Persistent Toxins Should Be Greatest in