Malpighian tubules are analogous to

Options

A. trachea of cockroach
B. gills
C. flame cells
D. none of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Malpighian Tubules**: Malpighian tubules are specialized structures found in insects, primarily serving as excretory and osmoregulatory organs. They help in the removal of nitrogenous wastes from the insect's body.

2. **Identifying the Function**: The primary function of Malpighian tubules is excretion, specifically the excretion of nitrogenous waste products.

3. **Understanding the Term 'Analogous'**: The term 'analogous' refers to structures that perform similar functions but have different evolutionary origins. This means we need to find another structure that also serves the function of excretion but is not derived from the same evolutionary lineage as Malpighian tubules.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **A. Trachea**: This is a respiratory organ in insects, not involved in excretion. Therefore, it is not analogous to Malpighian tubules.
- **B. Gills**: Gills are respiratory organs found in aquatic animals like fish. They are not involved in excretion, making this option incorrect.
- **C. Flame Cells**: Flame cells are excretory structures found in flatworms (phylum Platyhelminthes). Their function is to excrete waste, similar to Malpighian tubules, but they are from a different evolutionary origin.
- **D. None of these**: This option implies that none of the previous options are analogous, which is incorrect since flame cells are analogous to Malpighian tubules.

5. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is **C. Flame Cells**, as they are analogous to Malpighian tubules in function (excretion) but differ in evolutionary origin.

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