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Multiple Choice
Cuticular respiration occurs through which of the following structures?
A
The outer surface of the body (cuticle)
B
Gills
C
Lungs
D
Tracheae
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of cuticular respiration: Cuticular respiration refers to the process of gas exchange that occurs directly through the outer surface of an organism's body, typically the cuticle, which is a protective layer found in certain animals like insects and amphibians.
Analyze the options provided: The question lists four structures—outer surface of the body (cuticle), gills, lungs, and tracheae. Each of these structures is associated with different types of respiration mechanisms.
Relate the structure to the process: Cuticular respiration specifically involves the outer surface of the body (cuticle). Gills are used for aquatic respiration, lungs are used for terrestrial respiration in vertebrates, and tracheae are part of the respiratory system in insects.
Eliminate incorrect options: Gills, lungs, and tracheae are specialized structures for respiration, but they do not involve direct gas exchange through the cuticle. Therefore, these options can be ruled out.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the definition and elimination process, the correct structure for cuticular respiration is the outer surface of the body (cuticle).