What mouthparts are characteristic of ants, bees, and wasps?

The characteristic mouthparts of ants, bees, and wasps are primarily designed to allow them to manipulate and consume various types of food. The correct choice indicates that these insects have either chewing mouthparts or a combination of chewing and sucking mouthparts.

Ants are known to possess chewing mouthparts that allow them to break down solid food, such as plant material and other insects, which is essential for their diet and social structure. Bees also have chewing mouthparts for processing pollen and nectar, but they are adapted further with a structure called a proboscis, which allows them to suck liquid food. Wasps, depending on the species, may have similar adaptations, utilizing chewing for solid food and suctorial capabilities for liquids.

This adaptation showcases the diversity in feeding strategies among these insects while highlighting their evolutionary developments that enable them to thrive in various ecological niches. Thus, the presence of both chewing and the ability for some to suck reflects their versatility in feeding habits.