Which insect is a Lepidopteran with complete metamorphosis and sucking mouthparts?

• A. Luna Moth
• B. Japanese Beetle
• C. Lightningbug
• D. Mealybug

Answer: (A)

Lepidopterans, like moths and butterflies, go through complete metamorphosis, meaning they have distinct egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult life stages, and many adults feed with a long, coiled mouthpart adapted for sipping liquids. The Luna Moth is a large moth in this order and, as an adult, carries these sucking mouthparts used to suck nectar. The other options don’t fit: beetles such as the Japanese Beetle and the Lightningbug are in a different order and typically have chewing mouthparts, not sucking. A mealybug is a scale insect with piercing-sucking mouthparts, but it’s not a Lepidopteran and doesn’t undergo complete metamorphosis like moths do. So, the Luna Moth best fits the description.