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Introduction to Insect Anatomy
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Insects are an extremely diverse type of
animal. All have an external supporting structure, called an
exoskleton and all have bodies that can be divided into three major
areas: the head, the thorax and the abdomen.
The head carries the eyes, mouthparts and a
pair of sensory antenna. The thorax provides support for three
pair of legs and usually two pair of wings. Some insects, such as
ants and termites, do not have wings. The abdomen contains most of
the insect's digestive system and it reproductive organs.
Parts vary greatly by species, but the
grasshopper shown above is somewhat representational. On the pages
that follow, you will find additional information on heads, legs and
wings. |
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