Which statement about gypsy moth females is correct?

Which statement about gypsy moth females is correct?

• A. Females are white and mottled brown bands on the wings, and do not fly.
• B. Females are dark brown and small.
• C. Males are white.
• D. Females are metallic green.

Answer: (A)

Understanding sexual differences in gypsy moths helps explain why one statement is correct: the females are white with some brown markings on their wings and cannot fly. This flightlessness and pale coloration are characteristic of the female, making her rely on pheromones from males to locate mates. The other descriptions don’t fit what these moths look like or how they behave: females are not dark brown and small, they are not metallic green, and males are not white. Males are typically brownish or gray and capable of flight, which contrasts with the female’s wing pattern and lack of flight.

Understanding sexual differences in gypsy moths helps explain why one statement is correct: the females are white with some brown markings on their wings and cannot fly. This flightlessness and pale coloration are characteristic of the female, making her rely on pheromones from males to locate mates. The other descriptions don’t fit what these moths look like or how they behave: females are not dark brown and small, they are not metallic green, and males are not white. Males are typically brownish or gray and capable of flight, which contrasts with the female’s wing pattern and lack of flight.