JKSSB Sub Inspector of Police (JKPSI) 2022 — Q63 Solved Answer with Explanation

Question

The term Biomagnification refers to

1. A. increase in the concentration of non-degradable pollutant as they pass through food chain (Correct answer)
2. B. group of individuals of the same species within a community
3. C. number of births during a given time period
4. D. Interspecific interaction between members in which one population adversely affects the other

Correct Answer

Option A — increase in the concentration of non-degradable pollutant as they pass through food chain

Detailed Solution & Explanation

Biomagnification (biological magnification) refers to the progressive increase in the concentration of non-biodegradable (non-degradable) toxic substances -- such as DDT, mercury, and other persistent pollutants -- as they move up through the food chain. Organisms at each trophic level consume many organisms from the level below, accumulating the toxins in their body fat. The concentration of the pollutant increases at each successive level, with apex predators (including humans) receiving the highest doses. This is distinct from bioaccumulation, which is concentration within a single organism.