Question

In cockroaches, which is helpful in sexual attraction?
A. Hormone ecdysone
B. Pheromone
C. Juvenile hormone
D. Anal cerci

Answer 1

In cockroaches, also known as Oxyhaloa deusta belong to the subfamily Oxyhaloinae exhibits mating behaviour or sexual attraction by releasing a set of the chemical hormone. These hormones are known as sex hormones.

Complete answer: The mating strategy in cockroaches is characterized by sexual hormones. Two types of chemical signals are produced as sexual behaviour: long-range signals and short-range signals. In a long-range signal, the sex hormone pheromone is released by either male or female cockroach (mostly female) to attract the potential partner. In short-range signal, aphrodisiac sex hormone is released exclusively by a male cockroach. It is produced by the tergal gland in the male cockroach. Depending upon species in the cockroach, the process of attraction is initiated either by male or female cockroaches by producing long-range signals, i.e. by the release of pheromone. Once the partners are in contact due to long-range signals, short-range signals are active. While secreting pheromones, the cockroach has a characteristic posture also known as calling posture or behaviour. The male cockroaches extend their abdomen upwards to expose their sternal gland that is otherwise hidden in a normal position.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note: The release of pheromone is used as the medium of communication in cockroaches. The microbes or bacteria present in the gut of the cockroach along with faeces (undigested food) give out a specific odour that cockroaches find attractive.