Exoskeleton of Arthropoda
The material that forms the outer layer of the exoskeleton is chitin. It is a tough layer. The exoskeleton is a thickened area formed by the combination of chitin and some proteins. Commonly the mineral gems, essentially calcium carbonate, are stored among the chitin and protein particles in a cycle called biomineralization. The precious stones and filaments interpenetrate and support one another, the minerals providing the hardness and protection from pressure, while the chitin supplies the elasticity.
Phylum Arthropoda
Phylum Arthropoda is the largest phylum in the Kingdom Animalia and it includes insects. Arthropoda makes up more than two-thirds of all known species worldwide. The phylum Arthropoda characteristics include jointed appendages, a well-organized body structure with a segmented design, and a tough exoskeleton made of chitin. The Arthropoda body is divided into three sections: head, thorax, and abdomen.
The Phylum Arthropoda examples include insects such as ants, and butterflies arachnids like spiders and scorpions, crustaceans such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp, as well as myriapods including centipedes and millipedes. In this article, we will cover the Phylum Arthropoda and its classification, and characteristics in detail.
Table of Content
- Phylum Arthropoda
- Phylum Arthropoda Characteristics
- Classification of Phylum Arthropoda
- Respiratory System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Circulation System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Exoskeleton of Arthropoda
- Nervous System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Digestive System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Excretory System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Reproduction System of Phylum Arthropoda
- Senses in Arthropods of Phylum Arthropoda
- Differences Between Annelids and Arthropods