Which class of mouthparts contains strong mandibles?

The class of mouthparts that contains strong mandibles is known for its robust and well-developed structures designed for chewing. Chewing mouthparts are typically found in insects such as grasshoppers and beetles, which rely on these strong mandibles to break down tough plant material and other food sources. The mandibles are essential for their feeding habits, allowing them to effectively grasp, shred, and chew their food.

In contrast, piercing/sucking mouthparts are adapted for puncturing surfaces and drawing fluids, which requires a different structure and function. Sponging mouthparts are specialized for absorbing liquids, typically seen in fly species, and do not possess the strong mandibles characteristic of chewing mouthparts. Lastly, absorbing mouthparts are used by certain insects to take in liquid nutrition but are not involved in the mechanical processes of chewing. This distinction emphasizes the functional role of mandibles in food processing and the specific adaptations seen in different feeding strategies among insects.