The Heads of Insects are Oriented in One Three Ways

The Heads of Insects are Oriented in One Three Ways

1. Hypognathous: The long axis of the head is vertical i.e. at right angle to the long axis of the body. The mouthparts point downwards e.g. grasshopper, cockroach etc.

2. Prognathous: The long axis of the head is horizontal and in line with the long axis of the insects body. The mouthparts are directed forwards e.g. Stick insect, soldier caste of termites etc.

3. Opisthognathous: The head is reflexed ventrally so that the mouth parts are directed backwards between the coxae of the front legs e.g. Red cotton bug.