Which statement is true about Thysanoptera (thrips) mouthparts?

Study for the Science Olympiad Entomology Exam. Engage with questions that include diagrams and detailed explanations. Enhance your knowledge and confidence as you prepare for success in your competition!

Multiple Choice

Which statement is true about Thysanoptera (thrips) mouthparts?

Explanation:
Thrips have mouthparts that are specialized for rasping-sucking, and a distinctive asymmetry. The right mandible is absent or greatly reduced, while the left mandible is used to rasp plant tissue, with the maxillary stylets forming a narrow canal to suck up the dissolved fluids. This arrangement explains why they are not chewing mouthparts, nor siphoning nectar, nor sponging liquids. So the true statement is that mouthparts are asymmetrical with no right mandible.

Thrips have mouthparts that are specialized for rasping-sucking, and a distinctive asymmetry. The right mandible is absent or greatly reduced, while the left mandible is used to rasp plant tissue, with the maxillary stylets forming a narrow canal to suck up the dissolved fluids. This arrangement explains why they are not chewing mouthparts, nor siphoning nectar, nor sponging liquids. So the true statement is that mouthparts are asymmetrical with no right mandible.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy