Class Insecta Flashcards

Study Notes

Class Insecta

Insecta means "cut into sections," referring to the segmented body structure of insects.
The class is characterized by a body divided into three parts: head, thorax, and abdomen.

Characteristics of Insecta

Insects typically have three pairs of legs and may possess two pairs of wings, capable of beating up to 100 times per second.
Mouthparts are located on the head; they also have sensory organs, including one pair of antennae and compound eyes.
Possess an exoskeleton and respire through a tracheal system (internal tubes and sacs).
Simple circulatory system is present, with a heart.
Exhibit bilateral symmetry and are multicellular organisms.
Have a complete digestive system, enabling efficient processing of food.
Many insects live in colonies, demonstrating social behavior.

Environment of Insecta

Most insects are terrestrial, while a few species inhabit aquatic environments; very few are truly marine.

Common Representatives of Insecta

Examples include dragonflies, cockroaches, termites, crickets, lice, beetles, fleas, flies, butterflies, bees, wasps, and ants.

Life Cycle of Insecta

Winged insects go through complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Wingless insects undergo incomplete metamorphosis: egg, nymph, and adult.

Importance of Insecta to Humans

Insects are vital pollinators for plants, serve as food for various animals, and play a role in decomposing dead organisms.
They recycle organic matter but can also transmit diseases and cause damage to crops.

Relative Complexity of Insecta

Insects exhibit moderate complexity in their biological and ecological structures.

Nearest Relative of Insecta

Insects are closely related to other members of the Phylum Arthropoda.

Other Facts about Insecta

Over one million insect species have been identified, making them a highly diverse class that comprises more than 75% of all known animal species.
Some insects can consume plants harmful to other animals, showcasing unique feeding adaptations.
The oldest known insect fossil dates back around 400 million years to the Silurian period.

Metamorphosis of Insecta

Metamorphosis is the biological process in which insects change shape during their life cycle.
Complete metamorphosis involves significant transformation stages including larval and pupal forms.

No Metamorphosis of Insecta

Some adult insects do not develop wings, indicating variations in development within the class.

Incomplete and Complete Metamorphosis of Insecta

Incomplete metamorphosis follows a simple cycle of egg to nymph to adult.
Complete metamorphosis includes distinct stages: egg, larva (resembling a worm), pupa, and fully developed adult with wings and antennae.

Description

Dive into the fascinating world of Class Insecta with these flashcards! Explore key characteristics, anatomical features, and the unique traits that define these incredible creatures. Perfect for students and enthusiasts eager to learn about insects.