Insect gas exchange Flashcards
What kind of skeleton do insects have?
A chitin exoskeleton
How is air delivered into the insect?
It is delivered through spiracles into a branching tracheal system
How does gas exchange work in insects?
There is direct gas exchange between air and body cells
How is the trachea structured?
It divides into tracheoles and when they get so small, there is no chitin
How is chitin found?
In rings
What are the features of chitin?
It is impermeable, waterproof and stiff
How is air flow controlled?
By valves
Why is air flow controlled?
To minimise water loss if demand is low
What does fluid allow?
Gases to dissolve
What is the result of increased excercise
More lactic acid in cells
What is the result of more lactic acid?
More water is drawn into cells by osmosis
What is the result of more water?
Oxygen moves faster through air
How do larger insects ventilate?
They forcibly ventilate using abdominal movements
