What is the name of the anti-predatory norsesquiterpene secreted by whirligig beetles?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Comprehensive Entomology Exam with detailed quizzes on Morphology, Behavior, Evolution, and Pest Management. Dive into multiple-choice questions with solutions and explanations to boost your understanding. Get ready to ace your entomology test!

Multiple Choice

What is the name of the anti-predatory norsesquiterpene secreted by whirligig beetles?

Explanation:
Defensive chemistry in beetles often involves terpenoids produced in specialized scent glands. Whirligig beetles specifically secrete a norsesquiterpene called gyrinidal, which acts as an anti-predator repellent to deter attacks from predators like fish. Among the options, gyrinidal is the only compound historically linked to this beetle family’s defensive secretion. Menthol is a mint-derived monoterpene, limonene is a citrus monoterpene, and nerolidol is a sesquiterpene found in various plants and some insects but not the whirligig beetle’s characteristic defense. So gyrinidal best fits the description.

Defensive chemistry in beetles often involves terpenoids produced in specialized scent glands. Whirligig beetles specifically secrete a norsesquiterpene called gyrinidal, which acts as an anti-predator repellent to deter attacks from predators like fish. Among the options, gyrinidal is the only compound historically linked to this beetle family’s defensive secretion. Menthol is a mint-derived monoterpene, limonene is a citrus monoterpene, and nerolidol is a sesquiterpene found in various plants and some insects but not the whirligig beetle’s characteristic defense. So gyrinidal best fits the description.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy