Insects

Key notes :

Definition of Insects

• Insects are small animals that belong to the group of invertebrates (animals without a backbone).
• They are part of the largest group of animals on Earth, called Arthropods.

Characteristics of Insects

• Three Body Parts: Insects have three main body parts – the head, thorax, and abdomen.
• Six Legs: All insects have six legs, which are attached to the thorax.
• Antennae: Insects have one pair of antennae on their heads that help them sense their environment.
• Exoskeleton: Insects have a hard outer covering called an exoskeleton that protects their body.

Types of Insects

• Examples include butterflies, bees, ants, beetles, mosquitoes, and flies.

Insect Life Cycle

Many insects go through a life cycle called metamorphosis. This can be:

• Complete Metamorphosis: Four stages – egg, larva, pupa, and adult (e.g., butterflies).
• Incomplete Metamorphosis: Three stages – egg, nymph, and adult (e.g., grasshoppers).

Importance of Insects

• Pollinators: Insects like bees help in pollinating plants, which is crucial for plant reproduction.

• Decomposers: Some insects help break down dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the soil.

• Food Source: Insects are a food source for many animals, including birds and frogs.

Harmful Insects

• Some insects, like mosquitoes, can carry diseases (e.g., malaria, dengue).
• Insects like locusts can damage crops.

Insect Habitats

• Insects live in a wide range of environments, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and even water.

Interesting Facts

• Insects can be found everywhere except in the deep ocean.
• Ants can lift objects 50 times their own body weight!

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