Where do Anopheles larvae breathe using specialized structures?

Where do Anopheles larvae breathe using specialized structures?

• A. In a siphon tube
• B. On the top of abdominal segments
• C. On the thorax
• D. In the head

Answer: (B)

Anopheles larvae breathe through specialized openings called spiracles located on the dorsal (top) surface of the abdominal segments. They do not use a siphon at the end of the abdomen like some other mosquito larvae. This arrangement lets them stay nearly horizontal at the water surface while drawing air in through those abdominal breathing openings. In contrast, other genera typically extend a siphon from the posterior abdomen to reach surface air, which is why their breathing sites differ.

Anopheles larvae breathe through specialized openings called spiracles located on the dorsal (top) surface of the abdominal segments. They do not use a siphon at the end of the abdomen like some other mosquito larvae. This arrangement lets them stay nearly horizontal at the water surface while drawing air in through those abdominal breathing openings. In contrast, other genera typically extend a siphon from the posterior abdomen to reach surface air, which is why their breathing sites differ.