Which of the following describes the characteristics of mouthparts used for chewing and sucking?

The selected answer highlights that certain insects possess chewing mandibles in conjunction with mouthparts that have been modified for sucking. This combination is particularly characteristic of some insects, such as certain beetles and cicadas, where the chewing mandibles facilitate the mechanical breakdown of food, while the modified sucking mouthparts allow the insect to extract fluids, such as nectar or sap, effectively.

This dual functionality is essential for various feeding strategies, allowing these insects to exploit a range of food sources. For instance, the chewing mandibles enable them to process solid food materials, while the sucking structure aids in their ability to access liquid nutrients. Such adaptations provide a significant advantage in diverse ecological niches, enhancing their survival and adaptability.

The other options, while containing elements related to mouthparts, do not fully capture the dual function described in the correct answer. Chewing mandibles with an adapted structure for piercing suggests a singular focus on piercing and doesn't encompass the sucking aspect. A long hollow proboscis that extracts fluids describes a specific feeding mechanism used by some groups of insects (like butterflies) but lacks the chewing component. Lastly, hollow spiracles pertain to respiratory structures rather than mouthparts, further differentiating those from the chewing and sucking complexity inherent in option B.