Which of the following statements is true? 

• A. The energy assimilated by an organism is used for new biomass only.
• B. The energy assimilated by an organism is used for new biomass, respiration & reproduction.
• C. The energy assimilated by an organism is used for new biomass, respiration, & is lost as waste (feces).
• D. Consumers assimilate 100% of the energy they consume.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy assimilation: Energy assimilation refers to the process by which organisms take in energy from their environment and convert it into forms that can be used for growth, reproduction, and maintenance.
2. Recognize that not all assimilated energy is used for new biomass: Organisms use assimilated energy for various purposes, including growth (new biomass), maintenance (respiration), and reproduction.
3. Consider energy loss: Some of the assimilated energy is lost as waste, such as feces, and not all energy consumed is assimilated.
4. Evaluate the statement about consumers: Consumers do not assimilate 100% of the energy they consume. A portion of the energy is lost as heat or waste.
5. Identify the correct statement: The correct statement is that the energy assimilated by an organism is used for new biomass, respiration, and reproduction, and some is lost as waste.