Insect Cuticle Structure Quiz

Test your knowledge on the structure of insect cuticles, with a focus on the unsclerotized cuticle between sclerites, containing unmodified chitin. Understand the different layers like exocuticle, endocuticle, and epicuticle, and their roles in the moulting (ecdysis) process.

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Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of ecdysis in ecdysozoans?

To grow incrementally and facilitate changes between developmental stages

What is the outermost layer of the cuticle composed of?

Waxy, water-resistant material

What is the result of sclerotization in arthropods?

The cuticle becomes harder and more rigid

What is the function of the fine ducts in the cuticle?

To connect the epidermis to the top of the cuticle Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the inactive enzymatic moulting fluid secreted during the moulting process?

To initiate the separation of the old cuticle from the epidermis Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of ecdysis necessary for?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the hardened plates formed through sclerotization?

Sclerites Signup and view all the answers

What is deposited on the surface of the epidermis during the third stage of the moulting process?

A new proto-epicuticle layer Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the digested materials from the old endocuticle during the moulting process?

They are re-used to build the new cuticle Signup and view all the answers

What type of enzymes are activated in the moulting fluid during the fourth stage of the moulting process?

Chitinases and peptidases Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the epidermis growth stage of the moulting process?

The epidermis grows and increases its surface area Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the new procuticle layer deposited during the moulting process?

To protect the newly deposited procuticle from being digested Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the moulting fluid in ecdysozoans?

To break down the old cuticle Signup and view all the answers

What is the sequence of events during ecdysis in ecdysozoans?

Moulting of the old exocuticle, followed by deposition of the new epicuticle and then cuticle expansion Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the surface area of the new cuticle after ecdysis?

It increases compared to the old cuticle Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cuticle ducts in ecdysozoans?

To sclerotize the new cuticle Signup and view all the answers

How long does sclerotization of the new cuticle take in ecdysozoans?

Several minutes to several days Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic shape of nematodes?

Thread-like Signup and view all the answers