What function do digestive enzymes injected by the water bug's rostrum serve during predation?
Answer
To liquefy internal tissues of the prey
The predatory technique employed by the water bug relies on its potent saliva injected via the rostrum. Once the rigid beak punctures the prey—which could be a small fish or tadpole—the bug injects enzymes contained within its saliva. These enzymes function as potent external digestive agents, rapidly breaking down and liquefying the internal tissues of the victim. Following this process, the water bug then utilizes its beak to suck the resulting nutrient soup out of the prey’s remains, meaning the external digestion is mandatory before consumption can occur.
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