Which function is NOT associated with cerci?

Cerci are paired sensory appendages found on the posterior end of certain arthropods, such as insects. Their primary functions include aiding in locomotion and serving as a defense mechanism. Locomotion is facilitated through their role in maintaining balance and detecting air currents, which helps insects navigate through their environment. The defense mechanism aspect comes into play as cerci can be used to aid in escaping predators, either by detecting their presence or by acting as a physical deterrent.

Grasping is another behavior that cerci may assist with, particularly in certain insects that use these appendages to hold onto surfaces or during mating rituals. However, feeding is not a function associated with cerci. These appendages do not play a role in the insect's food acquisition or consumption processes; rather, insects rely on other specialized mouthparts for such activities. Therefore, the correct answer identifies feeding as the function that cerci do not perform.