What hardened plate structure on the tick’s back bears the primary color patterns?
Answer
Scutum
The distinctive color patterns that help differentiate sexes in the adult wood tick are located on a specific anatomical feature known as the scutum. The scutum is defined as the hardened plate situated on the tick's back. This plate serves as the primary canvas upon which the species exhibits its species-specific markings, such as the white spots on the female or the extensive mottling on the male.
Related Questions
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