Question

Body and wings covered with pigmented scales are present in:

• A. Diptera
• B. Lepidoptera
• C. Hymenoptera
• D. Odonata

Hint:

Lepidoptera literally translates to "scale wings," referring to the diagnostic presence of pigmented scales on the wings and body of butterflies and moths.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The diagnostic feature of many insect orders lies in the structure, modification, and accessory structures of their wings and body surfaces.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us examine the characteristic body coverings of these insect orders:
- Diptera (flies): Have membranous forewings and halter-like hind wings, without scale coverings.
- Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, ants): Have bare, membranous wings.
- Odonata (dragonflies, damselflies): Have large, heavily veined, membranous wings without scales.
- Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths): The name Lepidoptera is derived from the Greek words lepis (scale) and pteron (wing).
These insects are characterized by having both their bodies and wings completely covered with tiny, overlapping, pigmented scales.
These scales are modified epidermal hairs that contain chemical pigments or possess structural features that refract light, creating the patterns and colors characteristic of butterflies and moths.
Therefore, these scales are present in Lepidoptera.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (B).