[Campbell Biology P.192] According to Figure 8.1 and its caption, what is the primary functi... | Practice Question

According to Figure 8.1 and its caption, what is the primary function of bioluminescence in the Pyrophorus nyctophanus click beetle larvae?

  • A: To generate heat for thermoregulation.
  • B: To produce oxygen for respiration.
  • C: To attract termites, which the larvae then eat.
  • D: To repel predators away from the termite mound.

Explanation

The caption for Figure 8.1 explicitly states: 'These larvae convert the energy stored in organic molecules to light, a process called bioluminescence, which attracts termites that the larvae eat.' This directly identifies the primary function of bioluminescence in these larvae as attracting their prey.