Primary Mouthparts

The mouthparts of Collembola, Diplura, Symphyla, Protura and some mites are difficult to see because they are enclosed within the head or gnathosomal capsule.  On a cleared and slided specimen, the mouthparts can be seen to include a pair of opposed mandibles, sometimes with a molar grinding area, or stylets.  Mites with a well developed gnathosomal capsule might seem not to have mouthparts.  Maggots (larval flies, Insecta) have internal mouthparts, but they are often highly modified hooks.