[Campbell Biology P.1159] The whiskers of cats and rodents, the facial appendages of the star... | Practice Question

The whiskers of cats and rodents, the facial appendages of the star-nosed mole, and the antennae of the male silkworm moth, respectively, demonstrate the role of which types of sensory receptors in perceiving the external environment?

  • A: Mechanoreceptors; Chemoreceptors
  • B: Chemoreceptors; Mechanoreceptors
  • C: Mechanoreceptors; Electromagnetic Receptors
  • D: Thermoreceptors; Pain Receptors

Explanation

The text states that 'Some animals use mechanoreceptors to literally get a feel for their environment. For example, cats and many rodents have extremely sensitive mechanoreceptors at the base of their whiskers. Like the appendages on the face of the star-nosed mole, whiskers act as touch organs.' This indicates that whiskers and facial appendages are mechanoreceptors. The text also mentions that 'Animals also use chemoreceptors to detect stimuli in their diet and in the environment they occupy. The antennae of the male silkworm moth contain two of the most sensitive and specific chemoreceptors known... these receptors can detect components of the sex pheromone released by a female moth several kilometers away.' This confirms that the moth antennae are chemoreceptors.