Insects Flashcards
What is gas exchange in insects?
The process by which insects exchange gases with their environment.
What is an exoskeleton?
An external covering for the body in some invertebrates.
What is chitin?
A long-chain polymer that is a primary component of the exoskeleton in insects.
What is a characteristic of the insect exoskeleton?
It is waterproof.
Is the insect exoskeleton flexible?
No, it is inflexible.
Do insects have respiratory pigments?
No, they do not have respiratory pigments.
What are spiracles?
Small openings on the surface of insects used for gas exchange.
What are tracheal tubes?
The tubes that transport air directly to the tissues in insects.
What are tracheoles?
The fine branches of tracheal tubes that reach individual cells.
What is a benefit of the large surface area in insect respiration?
It facilitates efficient gas exchange.
What is a specialised respiratory surface?
A surface adapted for gas exchange, such as tracheoles in insects.
What is a ventilation mechanism in insects?
A method that helps to move air through the tracheal system.
How do insects reduce water loss?
Through their waterproof exoskeleton and efficient gas exchange system.
