Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

How does the wood wasp lay its eggs?

1. By chewing small holes

2. By drilling 1/4 inch holes

3. By laying them on branches

4. By dropping them from height

The correct answer is: By drilling 1/4 inch holes

The method by which the wood wasp lays its eggs is indeed through drilling small holes, typically around 1/4 inch in diameter. This behavior is essential for the survival of the larvae that will emerge from the eggs. The female wood wasp uses her ovipositor, a specialized egg-laying organ, to bore into the wood of trees or other plant materials. This precise drilling enables the female to place her eggs in a protected environment, ensuring that the larvae have access to the raw materials they need to feed on once they hatch. The choice of drilling size is significant because it allows for the appropriate accommodation of the eggs, while also reducing the risk of detection by predators. This method of laying eggs is crucial for the reproductive success of the species, as it maximizes the chances of the larvae's survival in their natural habitat.