Question

The Uzy fly in silk worm is a
A. Larval parasitoid
B. Larval-pupal parasitoid
C. Prepupal-Pupal parasitoid
D. Adult parasitoid
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A only
• B. B only
• C. C only
• D. C and D only

Hint:

The Uzy fly (Exorista bombycis) is a larval-pupal parasitoid because it oviposits on the silkworm larva, but the mature maggot emerges from and kills the host pupa inside the cocoon.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Parasitoids are insects whose larvae feed and develop internally or externally on a host, eventually killing it.
They are classified based on the host developmental stage attacked and the stage from which the parasitoid eventually emerges.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Uzy fly (Exorista bombycis) is a serious pest of both mulberry and non-mulberry silkworms.
The female Uzy fly lays eggs on the body of the active silkworm larva.
The hatched maggot bores into the body of the silkworm larva, feeding internally on its tissues.
Although the infestation begins in the larval stage, the parasitoid's internal development continues as the silkworm spins its cocoon and undergoes pupation.
The mature maggot eventually emerges by cutting open the cocoon after the host has pupated, killing the pupa.
Because the infestation is initiated in the larval stage and completed in the pupal stage, the Uzy fly is classified as a larval-pupal parasitoid.
Therefore, statement B is the correct classification.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (B).