Question

Which of the following features is used to identify a male cockroach from a female cockroach ?

• A. Presence of a boat shaped sternum on the 9^th abdominal segment
• B. Forewings with darker tegmina
• C. Presence of caudal styles
• D. Presence of anal cerci

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given question asks for a feature used to identify a male cockroach from a female cockroach. Understanding the anatomy of cockroaches and the distinguishing features of male cockroaches is essential to answer this question correctly.

Let's consider each option to identify the correct feature:

• Presence of a boat shaped sternum on the 9^th abdominal segment: This description is not a distinct feature differentiating male from female cockroaches.
• Forewings with darker tegmina: Both male and female cockroaches have tegmina, which are more about protection and camouflage rather than gender distinction.
• Presence of caudal styles: This is the correct answer. Male cockroaches have a pair of short, unsegmented, and pointed appendages known as caudal styles that females lack. These structures are located beneath the anal cerci on the abdomen.
• Presence of anal cerci: Both males and females have anal cerci, making it not a distinguishing feature.

To conclude, the distinguishing feature that can be used to identify a male cockroach from a female cockroach is the presence of caudal styles. These structures are absent in female cockroaches and thus serve as a gender-specific anatomical marker.