myriapoda An arthropod subphylum containing the centipedes and millipedes.
opiliones The arachnid group containing daddy-long-legs.
parasitic Living on or in an organism of another species; harmful to the host species.
pedipalps The second pair of arachnid appendages used for feeding, locomotion, and/or
reproductive functions.
scorpiones The group of arachnids containing the scorpions.
silk A thin, strong, protein strand extruded from the spinnerets; most commonly found on
the end of the abdomen of spiders.
symbiotic The living together of two dissimilar organisms.
Points to Consider
- Arthropods are characterized by the possession of a segmented body with appendages
on at least one segment and they are covered by a hard exoskeleton made of chitin.
How is the general arthropod body plan specialized in the insects? - Insects are the only group of invertebrates to have developed flight. Compare this
mode of locomotion to those discussed in the groups of arthropods already discussed.
What advantages might there be to using flight for a method of locomotion?
12.4 Lesson 12.4: Insects
Lesson Objectives
- Describe the characteristics of insects.
- Explain how insects obtain food.
- Describe reproduction and the life cycle of insects.
- Explain how insects are important.
- Describe how insect pests are controlled.
Check Your Understanding
- What is an arthropod?
- Is a spider an insect? Why or why not?