Question

Which two systems most directly interact in the fuzzy millipede's defense against ants?

Answer 1

Two systems most directly interact in the fuzzy millipede's defense against ants are :

muscular and integumentary

Explanation:

• The fuzzy millipede, Polyxenus fasciculatus, is found in Texas and is preyed upon by most species of ants.
• Most millipedes defend themselves with a variety of chemicals secreted from pores along the body, although the tiny bristle millipedes are covered with tufts of detachable bristles.
• Due to their lack of speed and their inability to bite or sting, millipedes' primary defence mechanism is to curl into a tight coil – protecting their delicate legs inside an armoured exoskeleton.
• Reproduction in most species is carried out by modified male legs called gonopods, which transfer packets of sperm to females.
• Millipedes overwinter, so they may hide in cracks or crevices throughout the whole winter and emerge in the spring.
• These insects live in dark, damp places and feed on decaying plant life, sometimes damaging crops. But they can serve a good purpose too.
• To protect itself against the ants, it ejects fibers from a tuft located at the tail end of its body. When an ant attacks, the millipede flexes its back end toward the ant and wipes the tufts against it.