PBS Eons The Age of Insects Quiz

Why might we consider the current era as the Age of Insects?

• Because insects are more diverse and numerous than humans.

• Because insects are larger than humans.

• Because insects have a longer lifespan than humans.

• Because insects are more intelligent than humans.

What was the wingspan of the Meganeura, a giant relative of today's dragonflies?

• 30 centimeters

• 90 centimeters

• 50 centimeters

• 70 centimeters

What was the primary factor that allowed arthropods to grow so large during the Carboniferous Period?

• Abundant food supply

• Lack of predators

• Genetic mutations

• High levels of oxygen

How do arthropods breathe?

• Through their skin

• Through spiracles and tracheae

• Through gills

• Through lungs

What did scientists at Arizona State discover when raising insects in oxygen-rich environments?

• Insects grew smaller and slower.

• Insects lived shorter lives.

• Insects grew faster and larger.

• Insects became more aggressive.

What is the alternative theory proposed by researchers at Michigan State regarding the size of ancient arthropods?

• They grew larger to survive colder climates.

• They grew larger due to abundant food.

• They grew larger to escape predators.

• They grew larger to reduce oxygen intake in larvae.

What significant change occurred about 275 million years ago during the Permian Period?

• Decrease in global temperatures

• Increase in global temperatures

• Decrease in oxygen levels

• Increase in oxygen levels

What role did decomposers play in the decline of giant arthropods?

• They provided more food for arthropods.

• They decreased oxygen levels by breaking down dead wood.

• They increased oxygen levels.

• They caused diseases in arthropods.

By what time had the two-meter-long Arthropleura disappeared from the forest floor?

• 305 million years ago

• 315 million years ago

• 335 million years ago

• 325 million years ago

What is the main reason why today's arthropods are not as large as their ancient ancestors?

• Presence of predators

• Lack of food

• Lower levels of atmospheric oxygen

• Genetic changes