Ch 48 Arthropods 1a Flashcards
What phylum is characterized by jointed legs and a chitinous exoskeleton?
Phylum Arthropoda
Phylum Arthropoda includes various groups such as insects and arachnids, which have distinct body structures and systems.
What are the two major body regions of arachnids?
Cephalothorax and abdomen
Arachnids have four pairs of legs and do not possess antennae.
What are exoparasites?
Parasites that reside on the surface of the host
Examples include fleas and ticks.
Which group of arthropods includes blood-sucking parasites and vectors of diseases?
Order Siphonaptera (Fleas)
Fleas can transmit diseases such as bubonic plague and tularemia.
What is the term for the infestation by leeches?
Hirudiniasis
Leeches are part of the annelid group but are mentioned here for their parasitic nature.
How many pairs of legs do insects have?
Three pairs
Insects also have three distinct body regions: head, thorax, and abdomen.
What is metamorphosis in insects?
Change in form from larva to adult stage
Some insects undergo several larval stages (instars) before becoming adults.
What are the mouthparts of arachnids adapted for?
Cutting and sensory functions
They consist of chelicerae and palps, with the hypostome aiding in attachment.
What is the life cycle of fleas characterized by?
Egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages
Fleas undergo complete metamorphosis and are known for heavy infestations causing anemia.
Fill in the blank: Lice are _______ flattened, wingless insects.
dorsoventrally
They have clawed appendages for clasping the host’s hair.
What are the two orders of lice based on mouthparts?
- Mallophaga (biting and chewing)
- Anoplura (sucking)
Mallophaga lice feed on epithelial debris, while Anoplura feed on blood.
How long does the life cycle of lice take to complete?
3 to 4 weeks
Nymphs and adults can live only 7 days or less if not on the host.
What is myiasis?
Development of larvae in the tissues or organs of hosts
Myiasis is commonly associated with certain fly species.
What are the characteristics of blackflies?
Humped back and painful bites
Blackflies can cause significant harm and may lead to cattle stampedes.
What role do sandflies play in disease transmission?
Transmission of leishmaniasis and viral diseases
Sandflies are known for their blood-sucking behavior.
True or False: Muscid flies suck blood.
False
While horn flies and stable flies do suck blood, house and face flies do not.
What is the primary feeding adaptation of insect mouthparts?
Chewing-biting, sponging, or piercing-sucking
These adaptations depend on the insect’s feeding habits.
