CHAPTER 3 — INSECT DEVELOPMENT, CLASSIFICATION & IDENTIFICATION

Question 1

What are the two major types of insect metamorphosis?

Answer 1

Complete and incomplete (gradual/simple).

Question 2

What is the primary difference between complete and incomplete metamorphosis?

Answer 2

In complete metamorphosis, larvae look nothing like adults; in incomplete, nymphs resemble adults.

Question 3

What stage is unique to complete metamorphosis?

Answer 3

The pupal stage.

Question 4

What is an instar?

Answer 4

A developmental stage between molts.

Question 5

What determines how many instars an insect has?

Answer 5

Species-specific biology.

Question 6

What is an insect “order”?

Answer 6

A major classification grouping based on shared physical traits.

Question 7

What is taxonomy?

Answer 7

The science of classifying organisms.

Question 8

What feature separates beetles (Coleoptera) from other insects?

Answer 8

Hardened wing covers (elytra).

Question 9

How do you identify a true bug (Hemiptera)?

Answer 9

Piercing-sucking mouthparts and hemelytra (half-leathery, half-membranous wings).

Question 10

What pest group is known for social structure with castes?

Answer 10

Termites and many ants (Hymenoptera / Isoptera).

Question 11

What is the purpose of a dichotomous key?

Answer 11

Step-by-step identification based on observable traits.

Question 12

What is the most reliable ID feature for insect larvae?

Answer 12

Body shape, presence or absence of legs, and head capsule.