Assimilation Efficiency
- Pronunciation
- /as-sim-il-ay-shun ef-i-shen-si/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Assimilation Efficiency
- Plural
- Assimilation Efficiencies
Definition
The proportion of ingested food that is absorbed and utilized by an organism for growth, maintenance, and reproduction.
Etymology
From Latin 'assimilis', meaning 'similar' or 'alike', and 'efficiency' referring to the effectiveness of a process.
Example
The assimilation efficiency of a grasshopper feeding on grass is influenced by factors such as plant species and nutrient content.
Related Terms
- Nutrient uptake
- Digestion
- Metabolism
Usage Notes
Assimilation efficiency is often expressed as a percentage.