Question Details

Housefly belongs to the order

Options

A

diptera

B

carnivora

C

primata

D

insecta

Correct Answer :

diptera

Solution :

The correct answer is diptera.

To understand the biological classification of the housefly (Musca domestica), let's break down its taxonomic hierarchy step-by-step:
1. Kingdom: Animalia (Animals)
2. Phylum: Arthropoda (Invertebrates with jointed appendages and an exoskeleton)
3. Class: Insecta (Insects, characterized by a three-part body, three pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes, and one pair of antennae)
4. Order: Diptera (True flies)
5. Family: Muscidae
6. Genus: Musca
7. Species: M. domestica

The order Diptera (derived from the Greek words di meaning "two" and pteron meaning "wing") is a large order of insects that possess only a single pair of wings on the mesothorax, while the hindwings are modified into small, club-like sensory structures called halteres, which help in flight stabilization and balance.

Let's look at why the other options are incorrect:
- Carnivora: This is an order of placental mammals that includes specialized predators like cats, dogs, and bears.
- Primata: This is an order of mammals that includes lemurs, monkeys, apes, and humans.
- Insecta: This is the taxonomic Class to which the housefly belongs, not its Order.

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