Which of the following are detritivores?

1. Earthworms

2. Jellyfish

3. Millipedes

4. Seahorses

5. Woodlice

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The correct option is 1, 3 and 5 only.

Explanation:

Detritivores are organisms that feed on detritus, which consists of decomposing plant and animal matter as well as feces. They play a vital role in ecosystems by recycling nutrients back into the soil and biological systems.

Let us analyze each organism listed in the question:

1. Earthworms: Earthworms consume decaying organic matter in the soil and are classic examples of terrestrial detritivores.

2. Jellyfish: Jellyfish are carnivorous aquatic animals that capture live prey such as small fish and zooplankton using their stinging tentacles. They are not detritivores.

3. Millipedes: Millipedes primarily feed on decaying leaf litter and other dead plant material, making them detritivores.

4. Seahorses: Seahorses are carnivorous fish that eat live prey like tiny crustaceans (e.g., copepods and amphipods). They are not detritivores.

5. Woodlice: Woodlice (crustaceans) feed on decaying plant material, wood, and other organic matter, acting as detritivores.

Therefore, Earthworms (1), Millipedes (3), and Woodlice (5) are detritivores, while Jellyfish (2) and Seahorses (4) are carnivores.