Question

Choose the incorrect pair from the matches given below. (a) Antennae - sensory receptors (b) Metathoracic wings - Flying (c) Malpighian tubule - Excretory role id) Crop - Grinding food

Short answer

The incorrect pair is (d) Crop - Grinding food.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Function of Each Organ

Examine the function of the organs in each option. Antennae are indeed sensory receptors in many insects. Metathoracic wings are the hind wings of insects, mainly used for flying. Malpighian tubules are part of the excretory system in arthropods. The crop, part of the digestive system in some animals, stores food temporarily but is not primarily responsible for grinding it.

Identify the Incorrect Pair

Look at each option and identify which pair doesn't correctly match the organ to its function. Option (d) incorrectly matches the crop with grinding food, as the crop's function is to store food, not to grind it. Grinding of food typically occurs in the gizzard in birds, not in the crop.

Key concepts

Insect Anatomy

Understanding insect anatomy is vital for comprehending how these small but complex organisms function in their environments. Insects are members of the Arthropoda phylum and are characterized by their segmented bodies, which are divided into three main parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen.

The head houses important sensory organs like antennae, which are key for navigation and finding food, and the eyes. The thorax is where you'll find structures associated with movement, such as legs and wings. The metathoracic wings, found on the third thoracic segment, are particularly associated with flying. Beneath the surface of this fascinating anatomy lies a network of internal organs, each with specialized functions, crucial for the insect's survival.

Excretory System

The excretory system in insects is remarkably efficient, often due to the need to conserve water in their small bodies. A significant component of this system are the Malpighian tubules. Unlike humans, who have kidneys, insects rely on these tubules to separate wastes from the hemolymph (a fluid equivalent to blood in vertebrates).

The Malpighian tubules absorb nitrogenous wastes and transform them into uric acid, which can be excreted as a dry material. This adaptation is especially important for survival in arid environments. The process of excretion in insects is a marvel of evolution, showcasing how life can adapt to conserve vital resources like water.

Digestive System

An insect's digestive system is a tube-like structure that begins with the mouth and ends at the anus. This system is adapted to the insect's diet and way of life. The crop, as mentioned in the exercise, is not for grinding food but for storing it. This temporary storage allows insects to eat large amounts of food quickly, which can then be digested over time.

However, it is the gizzard, not the crop, which is responsible for grinding food in many insects. This muscular part is usually located after the crop and before the stomach. It uses mechanical force to pulverize the food, which is then chemically broken down as it moves through the rest of the digestive system. This efficient digestive process supports the high metabolic rates found in these creatures and contributes to their success in a wide range of habitats.