Which of these organisms partly digest its food extracellularly?
Answer Details
Termites partly digest their food extracellularly.
Termites are insects that feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials. Unlike other insects, such as houseflies and mosquitoes, termites have a unique digestive system that allows them to partially digest their food outside of their bodies. This is made possible by the presence of microorganisms, such as protozoa and bacteria, in the termite's gut. These microorganisms break down the cellulose in the wood and release simple sugars and other nutrients, which are then absorbed by the termite.
This extracellular digestion allows termites to efficiently break down tough plant material and extract the nutrients they need to survive. By relying on their gut microbes to do some of the heavy lifting, termites are able to survive on a diet that would otherwise be indigestible.