What type of mouthparts do beetles, cockroaches, and termites possess?

Beetles, cockroaches, and termites possess chewing mouthparts, which are characteristic of many insects in their respective orders. Chewing mouthparts are composed of a pair of mandibles that can move side to side to grasp and break down solid food items. This type of mouthpart is particularly effective for consuming plant material, wood, and detritus, which are common food sources for beetles and termites.

In the case of termites, their chewing mouthparts enable them to digest cellulose from wood efficiently, aided by symbiotic microorganisms in their gut. Cockroaches also leverage their chewing mouthparts to feed on a variety of organic matter, showcasing their adaptability as scavengers.

The presence of chewing mouthparts aligns with the feeding habits of these insects, supporting their ecological roles as decomposers, detritivores, and pests in various environments. Other types of mouthparts mentioned, such as piercing-sucking, rasping-sucking, and sponging, are adapted for different feeding strategies, typically seen in insects with different dietary needs.