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Question #46881
The Question
A neurotoxin is administered to Periplaneta americana, permanently paralyzing its spiracular sphincters in a closed state. The insect experiences rapid cellular hypoxia and dies much faster than a vertebrate subjected to complete airway occlusion. Which of the following physiological realities best explains this rapid asphyxiation?
Options
- A.
The absence of a respiratory pigment in the hemolymph prevents oxygen buffering, making tissues strictly dependent on the halted direct diffusion via tracheoles.
- B.
The accumulation of CO2 in the hemolymph binds to hemocyanin, drastically shifting the oxygen dissociation curve and halting internal respiration.
- C.
Active abdominal pumping is inhibited, which normally forces dissolved oxygen from the hemocoel into the peripheral tissues.
- D.
The volume of tracheolar fluid rapidly increases to facilitate the active transport of the remaining oxygen, exhausting cellular ATP.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Cockroach Respiratory Tracheal System|Partial Pressure Gradient Logic|Stomata
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: The fundamental difference between vertebrate and insect respiration.
Students often project vertebrate circulatory functions onto insects, assuming the hemolymph acts as a secondary oxygen carrier or buffer.
This question tests the strict NCERT fact that the insect circulatory system does not transport gases, making spiracle occlusion immediately fatal at the tissue level due to the absolute lack of an oxygen reservoir.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Structural Organisation in Animals - Class 11 |
| Concept | Cockroach Respiratory Tracheal System |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |