Which hairpin-like structure serves to anchor and stabilise the tick's mouthparts to its host's skin and to channel the exchange of fluids?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Hypostome.
- The hypostome is a critical anatomical structure in ticks that plays a key role in feeding. It is a rigid, protruding part of the tick's mouthparts (capitulum) and is equipped with barbed structures.
- The hypostome’s hairpin-like structure with backward-facing barbs ensures that the tick remains firmly attached to its host while feeding, and helps manage the transfer of fluids between the tick and its host.