Which of the following mouthparts of the cockroach is found in a pair and performs mastication ?

Options

A.
B.
C.
D.

Answer

To solve the question "Which of the following mouthparts of the cockroach is found in a pair and performs mastication?", we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Mouthparts of the Cockroach
The mouthparts of a cockroach include:
- Labrum
- Mandibles
- Maxillae
- Labium

### Step 2: Determine Which Mouthparts are Found in Pairs
Among the mouthparts listed:
- The **mandibles** are present in a pair (one on each side).
- The **maxillae** are also present in a pair (one on each side).
- The **labrum** and **labium** are single structures.

### Step 3: Identify Which Mouthpart Performs Mastication
Mastication refers to the process of chewing. In cockroaches:
- The **mandibles** are primarily responsible for mastication. They are strong and help in grinding food.
- The **maxillae** assist in handling food but do not perform mastication.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Since the question asks for the mouthpart that is found in a pair and performs mastication, the correct answer is the **mandibles**.

### Final Answer
The mouthpart of the cockroach that is found in a pair and performs mastication is the **mandibles**.

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