Which of the following structures enables the exchange of gases in insects?
Answer Details
In insects, the structure responsible for the exchange of gases is the tracheae. Insects have a unique respiratory system where air is taken in through tiny openings called spiracles located on the surface of their body.
The air then travels directly into a network of tubes known as the tracheae. The tracheae branch out extensively throughout the insect's body, allowing oxygen to diffuse directly to the insect's tissues and cells. The carbon dioxide produced in the cells travels back through the tracheae and exits the body through the spiracles.
Other structures like the skin, Malpighian tubules, and flame cells have different functions:
Skin: Insects do not use their skin for gas exchange like some other animals do; their skin is generally designed to protect them from environmental elements.
Malpighian tubules: These are involved in the excretory system of insects, helping to remove waste products from their bodies.
Flame cells: These are structures found in certain flatworms and are part of their excretory system; they are not present in insects.
Thus, the correct answer is the tracheae as they specifically enable the exchange of gases in insects.