Which of the following describes the mouthparts of mosquitoes?

The mouthparts of mosquitoes are classified as biting/piercing and sucking. This unique structure allows mosquitoes to effectively feed on the blood of their hosts. Their mouthparts are adapted into a long, needle-like proboscis, which they use to pierce the skin of animals or humans. This proboscis also contains specialized structures that allow for the suction of blood once they have penetrated the skin.

The biting/piercing aspect is crucial because it enables the mosquito to break through the surface of the skin, while the sucking component allows them to draw blood into their bodies. This adaptation not only facilitates feeding but also serves a purpose in their reproductive cycle, as female mosquitoes require the proteins found in blood to develop their eggs.

In summary, the classification of mosquito mouthparts as biting/piercing and sucking is accurate due to their structural adaptations that make them effective at blood feeding.