Role of Hormone in Insects Metamorphosis
Insects have several hormones that control their growth and development. These hormones regulate a variety of developmental processes, including embryogenesis, larval growth and moulting, metamorphosis, and reproduction. They also control other processes in insects, like metabolism, muscle activity, tanning, and colour change. The two major endocrine hormones that regulate these processes are the steroid hormone ecdysone and juvenile hormone. The role of these hormones are explained below:
Role of Ecdysteroids in Insects
Ecdysteroids are a class of steroid hormones that control molting and metamorphosis in insects. They are also found in crustaceans and spiders. Ecdysteroids are also known as “moulting hormones”. Ecdysteroids are produced in the following ways:
- Larval stages: Synthesized from dietary cholesterol in the prothoracic glands.
- Adult insects: Synthesized by the gonads.
Ecdysteroids are involved in the process of differentiation of tissues and organs during development, regulates reproductive processes, such as ovarian development and egg maturation.
Role of Juvenile Hormone in Insects
Juvenile hormone is a group of sesquiterpenoids that regulate insect development and physiology. JH is produced in the corpus allatum, a paired neuroendocrine gland. It secretes Juveline hormone (JH) into the hemolymph for delivery to target tissues.
- JH affects the process of molting, the periodic shedding of the outer skeleton during development.
- In adults it is necessary for normal egg production in females.
- Juveline hormone is a regulator of multiple developmental and physiological processes, such as metamorphosis, reproduction, and behavior. It’s known for its ability to delay metamorphosis.
Also Read: Types of Endocrine System
Role of Hormones in Completing the Life History of Insects and Frogs
The role of hormones in completing the life history of insects and frogs involves regulating developmental stages such as metamorphosis, growth, reproduction, and behaviour. The hormones are chemical messengers that play an important role in the life cycle of insects and frogs.
In frogs, the hormone thyroxine is responsible for metamorphosis whereas in insects, ecdysone and juvenile hormones are needed. These hormones are produced in small quantities but are essential for the completion of the life cycle of insects and frogs. In this article, we will study the role of hormones in completing the life cycle of insects and frogs.
Table of Content
- What are the Hormones in Insects and Frogs?
- Role of Hormone in Insects Metamorphosis
- Role of Hormones in Metamorphosis of Frog
- Factors Affecting Hormonal Control in Insects and Frogs Metamorphosis
- Conclusion – Role of Hormones in the Life History of Insects and Frogs
- FAQs on Role of Hormones in Completing the Life History of Insects and Frogs