Which mouthparts are used by insects to extract fluids from plants?

Insects that extract fluids from plants typically possess specialized mouthparts designed for piercing and sucking. This adaptation allows them to penetrate plant tissues and access the nutrient-rich sap within. The structure of these mouthparts often includes an elongated shape, facilitating the insertion into the plant, and a set of specialized organs that draw the liquid into the insect's digestive system.

Chewing mouthparts are predominantly used by insects that consume solid plant matter, such as leaves and stems, which is not suitable for extracting fluids. Sponging mouthparts are designed to absorb liquids through a sponge-like structure, more commonly seen in certain fly species, but they are not specifically adapted for piercing plant tissues. Siphoning mouthparts, often found in butterflies and moths, are used for feeding on nectar and typically involve a coiled tongue rather than a piercing mechanism needed for accessing plant fluids.

Thus, the ability of insects with piercing and sucking mouthparts to extract fluids efficiently makes them well-suited for feeding on sap or nectar, which is why this option is the correct choice.