1.
The term "bug" describes a certain type of insect. What do bugs have that other insects don't have?
Correct Answer
C. Piercing and sucking mouthparts
Explanation
Bugs have piercing and sucking mouthparts, which allow them to feed on the blood of animals or plants. This characteristic sets them apart from other insects, as not all insects have this specific adaptation. Ridges on all six legs and compound eyes are features that can be found in various insects, but the presence of piercing and sucking mouthparts is unique to bugs.
2.
When scientists discover a new species, they describe it and name it. What kinds of insects makeup 40% of described insects?
Correct Answer
B. Beetles
Explanation
Beetles make up 40% of described insects. This is because beetles are the most diverse group of insects, with over 400,000 known species. They can be found in various habitats all over the world and have adapted to different lifestyles and feeding habits. Their abundance and diversity contribute to their significant representation among the described insect species.
3.
What do you call a scientist who studies insects?
Correct Answer
A. An entomologist
Explanation
An entomologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of insects. They research various aspects of insects including their behavior, classification, ecology, and evolution. They may also study the impact of insects on ecosystems and human health. The term "entomologist" is derived from the Greek words "entomon" meaning insect and "logos" meaning study or knowledge.
4.
What is the name for the middle segment of an insect's body?
Correct Answer
C. Thorax
Explanation
The middle segment of an insect's body is called the thorax. The thorax is located between the head and the abdomen and is responsible for housing the insect's vital organs, such as the wings and legs. It plays a crucial role in the insect's movement and locomotion. The abdomen, on the other hand, is the hindmost segment of the insect's body and is primarily involved in digestion and reproduction. Phalange, on the other hand, refers to the bones in the fingers or toes of humans and is not relevant to the anatomy of an insect.
5.
All ladybugs are female and all dung beetles are male.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is not true. Ladybugs and dung beetles are not exclusively male or female. Both ladybugs and dung beetles have both male and female individuals within their populations.
6.
What is the biggest insect ever discovered?
Correct Answer
A. The giant weta
Explanation
The giant weta is considered the biggest insect ever discovered. It is a type of cricket found in New Zealand and can reach up to 4 inches in length and weigh up to 2.5 ounces. They have a robust body structure and long legs, making them one of the largest and heaviest insects in the world.
7.
What kind of insect DOES NOT live in a colony?
Correct Answer
C. Ladybugs
Explanation
Ladybugs do not live in colonies. Unlike hornets and leafcutter ants, which are social insects that live in large groups and work together, ladybugs are solitary insects. They typically live alone and do not form colonies or have a complex social structure. Ladybugs are known for their bright colors and are often found in gardens, where they feed on aphids and other small insects.
8.
Of all insects, the fastest runner is the cockroach.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Cockroaches are known for their incredible speed and agility, making them the fastest runners among insects. They have long, slender legs that allow them to move quickly and navigate through various terrains. Additionally, cockroaches have a high tolerance for heat, which further enhances their ability to move swiftly. Their fast running speed enables them to escape from predators and find food efficiently. Therefore, it is true that the cockroach is the fastest runner among all insects.
9.
Insects live all over the world. What is the only continent where insects do not live?
Correct Answer
B. Antarctica
Explanation
Antarctica is the only continent where insects do not live because it is the coldest and driest continent on Earth. The extreme cold temperatures and lack of vegetation make it inhospitable for insects to survive. Additionally, Antarctica is covered in ice and snow for most of the year, leaving very limited habitats for insects to inhabit. Therefore, insects have not been able to establish populations on this continent.
10.
Crickets are famous for chirping, but how do they make that noise?
Correct Answer
A. Rubbing their legs together
Explanation
Crickets make their chirping noise by rubbing their legs together. This is achieved through a process called stridulation, where one wing has a rough surface and the other wing acts as a scraper. By rubbing these wings together, crickets produce a distinct chirping sound. This sound is used by male crickets to attract females and establish their territory. The rubbing of their legs creates friction, which causes the wings to vibrate and produce the characteristic sound of crickets.