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Question #46886
The Question
Analyze the evolutionary transition of excretory structures from primitive invertebrates to terrestrial arthropods. Which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding their structural anatomy and functional mechanisms?
Options
- A.
Protonephridia in Platyhelminthes are primarily concerned with ionic and fluid volume regulation, whereas Malpighian tubules in insects efficiently manage both osmoregulation and uricotelic excretion.
- B.
Malpighian tubules rely on active ion secretion to create an osmotic sink, functionally paralleling how high microbial biomass in activated sludge maintains a steep gradient for rapid organic waste assimilation.
- C.
While protonephridia are blind-ended structures, Malpighian tubules are open at both ends to facilitate the continuous ultrafiltration of hemolymph driven by hydrostatic pressure.
- D.
The evolutionary success of terrestrial insects is heavily reliant on Malpighian tubules, which work in tandem with the hindgut to precipitate uric acid and maximize water reabsorption.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Cockroach Excretory Malpighian Tubules|Protonephridia vs Metanephridia|Primary vs Secondary Sewage Treatment
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot & Functional Confusion: Students often assume that because human kidneys utilize hydrostatic 'ultrafiltration', all advanced tubular excretory systems do the same.
They fail to distinguish between filtration (pressure-driven) and secretion (ATP-driven).
Additionally, there is a structural location trap: students forget that Malpighian tubules are blind-ended at their distal tips in the hemocoel, confusing them with structures like metanephridia which have open ciliated funnels (nephrostomes).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Structural Organisation in Animals - Class 11 |
| Concept | Cockroach Excretory Malpighian Tubules |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |