Question

In Cockroach, the arthrodial membrane
A. forms the hind wings
B. covers the compound eyes
C. forms the hypopharynx
D. forms the tegmina
E. joins the sclerites

Answer 1

In insects, particularly the cockroaches there are ventral sternites and the dorsal tergites present all over the body. These sternites and tergites as a whole are connected via a thin membranous structure known as the intersegmental membrane.

Complete answer:
Body of the insects is majorly divided into three regions namely the head, thorax and the abdomen. Sclerites are known to cover the complete body of the cockroach. These are thick chitinous plates which are dark-brown in color. They help in organizing the exoskeleton. The dorsal sclerites are known as the terga while the ventral sclerites are known as the sterna and lateral sclerites are known as the Pleura. The arthrodial membrane which is a colorless membrane, functions in joining these sclerites. Arthrodial membrane is therefore also known as the intersegmental membrane.
Moreover, this arthrodial membrane is a flexible cuticle and it helps in providing free movement to insects like cockroaches. Also, this membranous structure is responsible for the muscular movement in the joins of the sclerites and therefore the walking and running nature of insects is exhibited.

Hence, the correct answer is option (E).

Note: Arthrodial membrane particularly is a tough membrane occurring as a cuticle layer over the body of cockroaches. They are formed as skeletal elements occurring in insects and functions by providing relative movement because of their flexible nature. Also, this thin arthrodial membrane is also found at the basal portions of the sensory hair wings.