Question

During metamorphosis, under the ecdysone hormone moulting occurs________times in Periplaneta.

• A. 3–5
• B. 15–20
• C. 13
• D. 1-2

Answer 1

The correct option is C 13

The transformation of the larva into an adult through drastic changes is called metamorphosis. Metamorphosis is a biological process which involves sudden and abrupt changes in the body structure of the animal by cell growth and differentiation.

Molting, known technically as ecdysis, is literally a period of growth for insects. When one organism sheds something like hair, feathers, shells, or skin to make way for new growth it is said to be moulting. In insects like cockroach the moulting hormone ecdysone is secreted from the prothoracic glands. This hormone helps in the process of moulting, so that the organism can grow into an adult.

The development of Periplaneta americana (cockroach) is paurometabolous, meaning there is development through nymphal stage. The nymphs look very much like adults. The nymph grows by moulting about 13 times to reach the adult form.