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Entomology

The document provides comprehensive answers to an exam covering various aspects of entomology, including insect classification, ecological roles, pest management, and the importance of ecdysis. It discusses insect mouthparts and legs adaptations, identifies insect pests of cassava, and outlines Integrated Pest Management strategies for their control. Additionally, it highlights the beneficial uses of insects for human well-being, such as pollination, production of valuable products, biological pest control, and nutrient recycling.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
82 views23 pages

Entomology

The document provides comprehensive answers to an exam covering various aspects of entomology, including insect classification, ecological roles, pest management, and the importance of ecdysis. It discusses insect mouthparts and legs adaptations, identifies insect pests of cassava, and outlines Integrated Pest Management strategies for their control. Additionally, it highlights the beneficial uses of insects for human well-being, such as pollination, production of valuable products, biological pest control, and nutrient recycling.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Certainly!

Here are comprehensive answers to all the questions from


the exam:

Section A Multiple Choice Questions

1. Aquatic immatures of all holometabolous insects are known


as: B. larvae
2. Suppose you find an interesting arthropod living on the
bottom of a freshwater pond. It has eyes, antennae,
mandibles, and 5 pairs of legs. You conclude that this
organism belongs to the class: A. Insecta
3. "Lumpers" sometimes include Blattodea and Phasmida as
suborders of: C. Orthoptera (note: this is an outdated
classification; currently, Blattodea and Phasmida are separate
orders, but historically, they were grouped)
4. Chewing mouthparts are NOT found in: A. thrips
5. Which order is exclusively herbivorous? B. Phasmida
6. Worker ants remember landmarks around their nest
entrance and use these as a guide when returning home.
This behavior is an example of: A. imprinting

Section B Fill in the blanks

24. Identify four environmental factors that can limit the


population of an insect:

 Temperature
 Humidity
 Availability of food sources
 Predators and parasites

25. Name any five insect vectors and their corresponding


disease:
 Anopheles mosquitoes — Malaria
 Aedes mosquitoes — Dengue, Zika
 Glossina (tsetse fly) — Sleeping sickness (Trypanosomiasis)
 Musca domestica (housefly) — Bacterial and parasitic
infections
 Culex mosquitoes — West Nile virus

26. Identify any five crop pests and the plants they attack:

 Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) — Maize


 Bananas weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus) — Banana
 Aphids — Various crops such as beans and tomatoes
 Cassava mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti) — Cassava
 Banana bunchy top virus carrier (insect vector) — Banana

Section C Attempt any TWO questions

29. a) Describe the process of ecdysis in insects (12 marks):


Ecdysis is the process of molting in which an insect sheds its old
exoskeleton to allow for growth. It begins with the secretion of
enzymes that digest the inner layer of the old cuticle, creating a
separated layer known as the apolytic space. The insect then swells by
taking in air or water, causing the old exoskeleton to split, typically
along predetermined lines called sutures. The insect gradually
emerges from the old exoskeleton, often inflating its body to harden
and expand before the new cuticle hardens and darkens, completing
the molting process.

29. b) Explain the importance of ecdysis? (8 marks): Ecdysis is


vital for insect growth, as the exoskeleton does not expand. It allows
insects to increase in size and develop new body parts. Molting also
facilitates the shedding of worn or damaged cuticle, enabling repair
and renewal of tissues. Additionally, ecdysis is crucial for
metamorphosis in holometabolous insects, allowing transition from
immature to adult stages.
30. Identify four insect pests of cassava and describe how they can
be controlled using Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
approaches (20 marks):

 Cassava Green Mite (Tetranychus urticae): Control via


biological agents like Predatory mites, cultural practices like
removing infested leaves, and judicious use of acaricides.
 Cassava Brown Streak Virus (CBSD) carriers (via insects
like whiteflies): Use resistant varieties, crop rotation, removal
of infected plants, and limiting whitefly populations through
biological control.
 Cassava Mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti): Introduce natural
enemies like Ameiseia spp., apply targeted insecticides, and
utilize resistant cassava varieties.
 Cassava Polyphagous Weevil (Metamasius spp.): Use
pheromone traps for monitoring and mass trapping, crop
sanitation, and early harvesting to prevent damage.

31. With specific examples, illustrate the beneficial uses of insects


for human wellbeing (20 marks):

 Pollination: Bees, butterflies, and beetles pollinate crops like


fruits, vegetables, and nuts, increasing yields.
 Honey Production: Honeybees produce honey, a nutritious
food and commercial product.
 Silk Production: Silkworms (Bombyx mori) produce silk used
in textiles.
 Biocontrol Agents: Certain wasps and lady beetles control pest
populations, reducing reliance on chemicals.
 Decomposition: Dung beetles and other insects assist in waste
breakdown, recycling nutrients into the soil.

32. a) How are insect mouthparts adapted to diet? (10 marks):


Insect mouthparts are specialized structures adapted for their
particular diets. Chewing mouthparts (mandibles) are suited for
grinding solid food in beetles and grasshoppers. Sucking mouthparts
(like in mosquitoes and aphids) allow insects to extract liquids such as
blood or plant sap. Piercing-sucking mouthparts are adapted for
penetrating tissues, while sponging mouthparts (like in flies) are used
for lapping up liquids. The morphology reflects dietary needs,
facilitating effective feeding strategies.

32. b) Illustrate how insect legs are adapted for different functions
(10 marks): Insect legs vary in structure based on function:

 Jumping legs (e.g., in grasshoppers): elongated and muscular


for leaping.
 Running legs (e.g., in ground beetles): long and sturdy for swift
movement.
 Climbing or gripping legs (e.g., in beetles): with claws and
setae for holding onto surfaces.
 Swimming legs (e.g., in aquatic insects like water beetles):
flattened and fringed to aid in swimming.
 Prehensile legs (e.g., in praying mantids): adapted with spines
to grasp prey or branches.

Let me know if you need further explanations or diagrams!

Ecdysis, also known as molting, is a crucial biological process in


many invertebrates, particularly arthropods (like insects, arachnids,
and crustaceans), as well as some reptiles and amphibians. It refers to
the shedding or casting off of the outer body covering — usually the
exoskeleton or skin — to allow for growth and development.

Importance of Ecdysis:

1. Enables Growth

 Most arthropods have a rigid exoskeleton that does not grow


with the organism.
 Ecdysis allows the organism to shed its old exoskeleton and
expand before the new, larger exoskeleton hardens.
 Without molting, the animal would be trapped in a non-
expandable shell, halting its development.

2. Facilitates Metamorphosis and Development


 In insects, ecdysis is a key part of metamorphosis (e.g., from
larva to pupa to adult).
 Hormones (e.g., ecdysone) regulate these changes, allowing the
organism to transition through different life stages.

3. Regeneration and Repair

 Ecdysis allows some animals to regenerate lost limbs or


damaged body parts.
 During the molting process, these parts can regrow or be
restored.

4. Protection and Adaptation

 A new exoskeleton may be better suited to new environmental


challenges.
 It can include improved coloration for camouflage or signaling,
or new features like larger claws or hardened armor.

5. Parasite and Pathogen Removal

 Molting can help remove parasites, fungi, or bacteria that may


have colonized the old exoskeleton or skin.

In Summary:

Ecdysis is vital for survival, growth, development, and adaptation in


many animals. It ensures that the organism can continue to function
and thrive in changing environments by periodically replacing its
outer layer.

Here’s a detailed response to the question on four insect pests of


cassava and how they can be controlled using Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) approaches. This kind of answer would typically
score well in an exam setting if structured clearly and thoroughly.

Question: Identify four insect pests of cassava


and describe how they can be controlled using
Integrated Pest Management approaches. (20
marks)

1. Cassava Mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti)

Description:

 A small, soft-bodied insect that feeds on plant sap, usually found


in clusters on the undersides of cassava leaves, stem joints, and
root collars.
 Causes yellowing, leaf distortion, wilting, stunted growth, and
even plant death.

IPM Control Approaches:

 Biological Control:
o Introduce natural enemies like the parasitic wasp
(Anagyrus lopezi), which effectively reduces mealybug
populations.
 Cultural Control:
o Planting early-maturing and resistant cassava varieties.
o Intercropping cassava with other crops (e.g., maize or
legumes) to reduce pest habitat.
 Mechanical Control:
o Manual removal of infested plant parts.
 Monitoring and Thresholds:
o Regular scouting to detect early infestations and assess
pest populations.
 Chemical Control (last resort):
o Use of selective insecticides, but only when infestation
levels exceed economic thresholds.

2. Cassava Green Mite (Mononychellus tanajoa)

Description:
 A tiny spider mite that feeds on the undersides of leaves,
causing chlorosis, leaf curling, and reduced photosynthesis.
 Severe infestations lead to significant yield loss.

IPM Control Approaches:

 Biological Control:
o Release of predatory mites such as Typhlodromalus aripo,
which naturally prey on cassava green mites.
 Cultural Control:
o Use of resistant or tolerant cassava varieties.
o Proper field sanitation and timely planting to avoid peak
mite populations.
 Monitoring:
o Regular inspection of leaves for mite presence and damage
symptoms.
 Environmental Management:
o Avoid excessive use of broad-spectrum pesticides that kill
beneficial predators.

3. Cassava Hornworm (Erinnyis ello)

Description:

 A large caterpillar that feeds on cassava leaves, defoliating


plants and reducing photosynthetic capacity.
 Adults are nocturnal moths.

IPM Control Approaches:

 Biological Control:
o Natural enemies like parasitoid wasps (e.g.,
Trichogramma spp.) and birds help control populations.
 Cultural Control:
o Crop rotation and field sanitation (e.g., removal of infested
leaves).
o Early planting and use of trap crops to attract pests away
from cassava.
 Mechanical Control:
o Handpicking of larvae, especially in smallholder farms.
 Monitoring:
o Use of pheromone traps to detect adult moth activity and
predict outbreaks.

4. Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci)

Description:

 Tiny, white-winged insects that suck sap from cassava leaves


and transmit viral diseases like Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD)
and Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD).
 Cause yellowing, wilting, and reduced plant vigor.

IPM Control Approaches:

 Biological Control:
o Encouraging natural predators such as lady beetles and
lacewings.
 Cultural Control:
o Use of certified virus-free planting materials.
o Planting cassava away from older, infected fields (crop
isolation).
o Timely planting to avoid peak whitefly activity.
 Monitoring and Disease Management:
o Regular scouting for whiteflies and viral symptoms.
 Chemical Control (judicious use):
o Application of neem-based or insect growth regulators,
targeting nymph stages.
o Avoid routine spraying to prevent resistance buildup and
preserve natural enemies.

Conclusion (Optional for Bonus Marks):


Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers a sustainable and
environmentally friendly approach to managing cassava pests by
combining multiple control strategies. It reduces overreliance on
chemicals, protects beneficial organisms, and ensures long-term
productivity and ecosystem health.

Marking Scheme Suggestion (for 20 marks):

 Identification and description of 4 pests: (4 x 2 marks = 8


marks)
 Detailed explanation of IPM control methods for each pest: (4 x
3 marks = 12 marks)

Let me know if you'd like this converted into a printable format or


expanded with diagrams.

Absolutely! Here’s an expanded, more detailed answer to help you


cover even more ground for that 20-mark question on the beneficial
uses of insects for human wellbeing. This version includes additional
examples and explanations to maximize content depth.

Expanded Answer: Beneficial Uses of Insects


for Human Wellbeing (20 marks)

1. Pollination (5 marks)

 Key Pollinators: Honeybees (Apis mellifera), bumblebees


(Bombus spp.), butterflies, moths, beetles, flies.
 Details:
o Pollination by insects is crucial for about 75% of the
world’s flowering plants and 35% of global crop
production.
o Examples of insect-pollinated crops: apples, almonds,
coffee, cucumbers, melons, tomatoes.
o Pollination increases crop yield, quality, and genetic
diversity.
o Without insect pollination, the availability of fruits, nuts,
and vegetables would decline drastically, affecting human
nutrition.

2. Production of Valuable Products (6 marks)

 Honey (Apis mellifera):


o Used as a natural sweetener, medicine, and antiseptic.
o Contains antioxidants, vitamins, and enzymes.
 Beeswax:
o Important in cosmetics (lip balms, lotions), candles, and
pharmaceuticals.
 Silk (Bombyx mori):
o Luxurious natural fiber used in fashion and medical
sutures.
 Lac (Kerria lacca):
o Shellac resin used in varnishes, food glazing agents, and
polishing.
 Propolis:
o Resin collected by bees, used for its antibacterial and
antifungal properties in health products.
 Royal Jelly:
o Nutritious secretion by worker bees, used as a dietary
supplement and in cosmetics.

3. Biological Control of Pests (5 marks)

 Predators:
o Ladybird beetles feed on aphids and other soft-bodied
pests.
o Lacewings (Chrysopidae) larvae consume mites and insect
eggs.
 Parasitoids:
o Wasps like Trichogramma parasitize pest eggs, reducing
pest populations naturally.
 Pathogens:
o Some entomopathogenic fungi (e.g., Beauveria bassiana)
infect and kill pest insects.
 Benefits:
o Reduce chemical pesticide use.
o Help maintain ecological balance.
 Example: Release of Anagyrus lopezi to control cassava
mealybug in Africa successfully prevented crop losses.

4. Decomposition and Nutrient Recycling (3 marks)

 Dung Beetles:
o Break down and bury animal feces, recycling nitrogen and
phosphorus into the soil.
o Reduce breeding grounds for flies and parasites.
 Termites:
o Decompose tough plant fibers, turning dead wood into
humus.
 Carrion Beetles and Blowflies:
o Decompose animal carcasses, preventing disease spread.
 Soil Health:
o These processes maintain soil fertility, aiding agriculture
and natural ecosystems.

5. Scientific and Medical Research (3 marks)

 Model Organisms:
o Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) crucial in genetic
research; helped discover principles of heredity and gene
function.
 Maggot Therapy:
o Medical maggots clean chronic wounds by eating necrotic
tissue and secreting antimicrobial substances, promoting
healing.
 Venoms and Chemicals:
o Insect venoms and secretions studied for new drugs and
treatments (e.g., bee venom therapy for arthritis).

6. Food Source (Entomophagy) (3 marks)

 Insects as Protein:
o Crickets, grasshoppers, termites, and caterpillars are rich
in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
 Sustainability:
o Farming insects has a smaller environmental footprint
compared to traditional livestock (less water, land, and
greenhouse gas emissions).
 Cultural Aspect:
o Widely consumed in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
 Economic Benefit:
o Provides income for rural communities.

7. Economic and Cultural Importance (Bonus 2 marks)

 Economic Value:
o Beekeeping (apiculture) is a major livelihood activity
worldwide.
o Silk production supports millions of farmers.
 Cultural Significance:
o Insects appear in folklore, religion, and art.
o Butterfly watching and beekeeping are popular
recreational activities.

Summary Table of Beneficial Uses:


Beneficial Use Example(s) Importance
Honeybees, Food production,
Pollination
butterflies biodiversity
Honey, beeswax, Food, cosmetics,
Production of Products
silk, lac textiles
Ladybirds, Sustainable pest
Biological Pest Control
parasitoid wasps management
Dung beetles, Soil fertility, ecosystem
Decomposition
termites health
Genetic studies,
Scientific Research Fruit flies, maggots
medical therapies
Food Source Crickets,
Nutrition, sustainability
(Entomophagy) grasshoppers
Economic/Cultural Apiculture, silk
Livelihoods, culture
Importance farming

Conclusion:

Insects are indispensable to human wellbeing, supporting food


security, health, environmental balance, and economy. Promoting
insect conservation and sustainable use is crucial for continued human
prosperity.

If you want, I can help you format this for presentation or create
concise revision notes!

Sure! Here’s a detailed answer for both parts of your question,


suitable for 20 marks total.

32(a) How are insect mouthparts adapted to


diet? (10 marks)
Insects exhibit a wide variety of mouthparts adapted to their specific
feeding habits. The structure of the mouthparts reflects the type of
food they consume and the method of feeding. Below are the main
types of insect mouthparts and their adaptations:

1. Chewing Mouthparts

 Example: Grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars


 Adaptation:
o Mandibles are strong and toothed for biting, cutting, and
grinding solid food like leaves and plant material.
o Maxillae assist in manipulating food.
o Labrum acts as an upper lip to hold food.
o These mouthparts allow efficient mechanical breakdown
of tough plant tissues.

2. Sucking Mouthparts

 Example: Butterflies, moths


 Adaptation:
o Long, coiled proboscis formed by elongated maxillae that
can uncoil to reach nectar deep inside flowers.
o Adapted for sucking liquid food (nectar).
o Lack mandibles since solid food is not consumed.

3. Piercing-Sucking Mouthparts

 Example: Mosquitoes, aphids, bed bugs


 Adaptation:
o Needle-like stylets (modified mandibles and maxillae) that
pierce plant or animal tissue.
o Proboscis encloses stylets and is used to suck blood or
plant sap.
o Labium forms a sheath around the stylets for protection.
o Adapted to feed on fluids from hosts.

4. Sponging Mouthparts

 Example: Houseflies
 Adaptation:
o Short, fleshy labellum with sponge-like structures that
soak up liquid food.
o Cannot bite or pierce; they secrete saliva to dissolve solids
and then sponge up the liquid.
o Adapted for feeding on liquid or semi-liquid organic
matter.

5. Chewing-Lapping Mouthparts

 Example: Honeybees
 Adaptation:
o Combination of mandibles for biting and maxillae with a
tongue for lapping nectar.
o Allows collection of both solid pollen and liquid nectar.

Summary Table (for quick revision):

Mouthpart
Example Adaptation Diet
Type
Strong mandibles for Solid plant
Chewing Grasshopper
biting/grinding material
Long coiled proboscis
Sucking Butterfly Nectar (liquid)
for nectar
Piercing- Needle-like stylets to Blood or plant
Mosquito
Sucking pierce & suck sap
Labellum with sponge- Liquids/semi-
Sponging Housefly
like structures liquids
Chewing- Mandibles + lapping Pollen and
Honeybee
Lapping tongue nectar

32(b) Illustrate how insect legs are adapted for


different functions (10 marks)
Insect legs have evolved in various forms to perform specialized
functions depending on their habitat and lifestyle. The basic leg has
five segments: coxa, trochanter, femur, tibia, and tarsus. Adaptations
occur mainly in shape, size, and robustness.

1. Walking or Running Legs

 Example: Cockroaches, grasshoppers


 Adaptation:
o Long, slender legs with strong muscles.
o Enable fast running and movement across surfaces.
o Tarsi provide grip.

2. Jumping Legs

 Example: Grasshoppers, fleas


 Adaptation:
o Enlarged and muscular femur and tibia.
o Acts as a lever and spring to generate powerful jumps.
o Enables escape from predators or movement to new
locations.

3. Digging (Fossorial) Legs

 Example: Mole crickets


 Adaptation:
o Flattened, broadened, and spade-like forelegs.
o Equipped with strong claws for digging into soil.
o Used for burrowing and constructing underground tunnels.

4. Grasping (Raptorial) Legs

 Example: Praying mantis


 Adaptation:
o Forelegs modified with sharp spines and hooks.
o Adapted to catch and hold prey tightly.
o Enable the insect to be an effective predator.

5. Swimming Legs
 Example: Water beetles, backswimmers
 Adaptation:
o Flattened and fringed with hairs.
o Act as paddles to propel the insect through water.
o Help in aquatic locomotion.

6. Sucking or Climbing Legs

 Example: Aphids, lice


 Adaptation:
o Legs with claws or adhesive pads.
o Help cling onto hosts or surfaces.
o Enable stability on plant stems or animal fur.

Summary Table (for quick revision):

Leg Type Example Adaptation Function


Walking/Running Cockroach Long, strong legs Fast movement
Enlarged
Jumping Grasshopper Powerful jumps
femur/tibia
Digging Mole cricket Spade-like forelegs Burrowing
Praying Spiny, hooked
Grasping Catching prey
mantis forelegs
Flattened, hairy
Swimming Water beetle Swimming
legs
Claws or adhesive Clinging to
Climbing Aphids
pads surfaces

Conclusion:

Insect mouthparts and legs show remarkable diversity and


specialization, reflecting the insects’ adaptation to different diets and
ecological niches. These adaptations are key to their survival and
success in various environments.
If you want, I can help you with diagrams or concise notes for easier
memorization!
Certainly! Below is a more detailed elaboration on **Section C** (long-answer
questions) to help you craft well-structured, high-scoring responses.

---

### **SECTION C (Detailed Answers)**


**Each question is worth 20 marks. Structure your answers with clear headings,
examples, and explanations.**

---

### **Question 29: Ecdysis in Insects**


#### **(a) Process of Ecdysis (12 marks)**
Ecdysis (molting) is the process by which insects shed their old exoskeleton to
grow. The steps include:

1. **Hormonal Trigger**
- **Brain hormone (PTTH)** stimulates the **prothoracic glands** to
release **ecdysone**, initiating molting.
- **Juvenile hormone (JH)** determines whether the next stage is larval,
pupal, or adult.

2. **Apolysis (Separation of Old Cuticle)**


- The epidermis detaches from the old cuticle, forming the **exuvial space**.
- Enzymes (e.g., chitinase) dissolve the inner layers of the old cuticle.

3. **New Cuticle Formation**


- Epidermis secretes a soft, flexible **procuticle** (chitin + proteins).
- Outer **epicuticle** (waxy layer) is deposited for waterproofing.

4. **Ecdysis (Shedding)**
- The insect swallows air/water to expand and split the old cuticle along
**ecdysial lines**.
- Contractions help wriggle out of the exuvia (shed skin).

5. **Post-Molt Expansion & Sclerotization**


- The new cuticle expands before hardening (via **tanning** and cross-
linking proteins).
- **Melanization** darkens the exoskeleton.

#### **(b) Importance of Ecdysis (8 marks)**


- **Growth:** Rigid exoskeletons cannot stretch; molting allows size increase.
- **Metamorphosis:** Critical for holometabolous insects (e.g., caterpillars →
butterflies).
- **Regeneration:** Lost limbs can regenerate during molting (e.g., stick
insects).
- **Environmental Adaptation:** Some insects molt to enter diapause
(dormancy).

**Example:** Cockroaches molt 6–13 times before adulthood, with JH levels


declining in final instars to trigger maturation.

---

### **Question 30: Cassava Pests & IPM**


#### **Four Major Cassava Pests (8 marks)**
1. **Cassava Green Mite (*Mononychellus tanajoa*)** – Causes leaf chlorosis.
2. **Whiteflies (*Bemisia tabaci*)** – Vectors cassava mosaic virus.
3. **Mealybugs (*Phenacoccus manihoti*)** – Sucks sap, stunts growth.
4. **Cassava Stem Borer (*Coelosternus spp.*)** – Tunnels into stems.

#### **IPM Control Strategies (12 marks)**


1. **Biological Control**
- **Predatory mites** (*Typhlodromalus aripo*) for green mites.
- **Parasitoid wasps** (*Apoanagyrus lopezi*) for mealybugs.

2. **Cultural Practices**
- **Intercropping** with cowpea to disrupt pest cycles.
- **Sanitation**: Remove infected plants to reduce virus spread.

3. **Resistant Varieties**
- Plant **CMD-resistant cassava** (e.g., *TME 419*).

4. **Chemical Control (Last Resort)**


- **Botanical pesticides** (neem oil) to minimize non-target harm.

**Example:** In Africa, *A. lopezi* reduced mealybug populations by 90%


without pesticides.

---

### **Question 31: Beneficial Uses of Insects**


#### **1. Pollination (5 marks)**
- **Bees (*Apis spp.*)** pollinate 75% of crops (fruits, nuts, vegetables).
- **Economic Impact:** $235–577 billion/year globally (FAO).

#### **2. Silk & Textiles (4 marks)**


- **Silkworms (*Bombyx mori*)** produce silk for fabrics, surgical sutures.
- **Lac insects** secrete shellac for varnishes.

#### **3. Biocontrol (4 marks)**


- **Ladybugs (*Coccinellidae*)** eat aphids, reducing pesticide use.
- **Parasitoid wasps** (*Trichogramma*) control crop pests.

#### **4. Decomposition & Nutrient Cycling (3 marks)**


- **Dung beetles** recycle manure, improving soil fertility.
- **Termites** break down cellulose in dead wood.

#### **5. Food & Feed (4 marks)**


- **Edible insects** (crickets, mealworms) provide protein (60–70% by
weight).
- **Insect meal** replaces fishmeal in aquaculture.

**Example:** In Thailand, cricket farming generates income for 20,000


households.

---

### **Question 32: Insect Adaptations**


#### **(a) Mouthpart Adaptations (10 marks)**
| **Diet** | **Mouthpart Type** | **Example Insect** |
**Adaptation** |
|-------------------|--------------------------|----------------------------|---------------------
--------------------|
| Chewing plants | Mandibulate | Grasshopper | Strong
mandibles to grind leaves. |
| Piercing-sucking | Stylet-like | Mosquito | Needle-like
proboscis for blood. |
| Siphoning nectar | Proboscis (coiled tube) | Butterfly | Unrolls to
drink from flowers. |
| Sponging liquids | Labellum (sponge-like) | Housefly | Absorbs
liquids via capillary action. |

#### **(b) Leg Adaptations (10 marks)**


| **Function** | **Leg Type** | **Example Insect** |
**Adaptation** |
|-------------------|------------------------|---------------------------|------------------------
-----------------|
| Jumping | Saltatorial hind legs | Grasshopper | Enlarged femurs
with elastic energy. |
| Digging | Fossorial forelegs | Mole cricket | Broad, spade-like
tibiae. |
| Grasping prey | Raptorial forelegs | Praying mantis | Spiked legs to
trap prey. |
| Swimming | Natatorial legs | Water beetle | Fringed with
hairs for paddling. |
| Clinging | Cursorial legs | Cockroach | Claws and pads for
vertical surfaces. |

**Example:** Water striders use **hydrophobic leg hairs** to walk on water


(surface tension).

---
### **Key Tips for High Marks**
- **Define terms** (e.g., "ecdysis," "IPM") in introductions.
- **Use examples** (scientific names boost credibility).
- **Diagrams** (e.g., mouthparts, leg types) can earn extra marks if labeled
clearly.
- **Link to real-world impacts** (e.g., economic value of pollinators).

Let me know if you’d like further refinement on any section!

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