10 key characteristics of insects based on entomological sources:
Arthropods with exoskeletons: Insects belong to the phylum Arthropoda and have a hard external skeleton made of chitin that provides protection and support.
Book novelties:
Prioninae of the World I.
Cerambycidae of the Western Paleartic I.
Start Shopping, Start Saving – prices from $3 USD
We recoment: carabidae, buprestidae, cerambycidae, cicindelidae, scarabaeidae, chrysomelidae, curculionoidea, staphylinidae, family coleoptera beetles, tiger beetle, ground beetle, longhorn beetle, jewel beetle, beetles of africa, goliath beetle, stag beetle lucanidae, weevil beetles, carpet beetles
Three main body regions: Their bodies are divided into three distinct parts—head, thorax, and abdomen.
Six jointed legs: Insects have three pairs of jointed, segmented legs attached to the thorax.
One pair of antennae: They have a single pair of antennae on their heads used for sensing their environment, including smell and touch.
Compound eyes: Most insects have compound eyes composed of many facets, allowing them to see multiple images simultaneously.
Wings (usually two pairs): Most adult insects have two pairs of wings attached to the thorax, though some species have one pair or none.
Molting for growth: Because of their rigid exoskeleton, insects grow by molting—shedding their old exoskeleton and forming a new one.
Metamorphosis: Insects undergo either complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult) or incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Bilateral symmetry: Their bodies are bilaterally symmetrical, meaning left and right sides are mirror images.
Diverse feeding and behavior: Insects exhibit a wide range of feeding habits (herbivores, carnivores, decomposers) and behaviors, including solitary and social lifestyles.
10 characteristics of insects
These characteristics distinguish insects from other arthropods and animal groups