Browsing: Insect

Insects are a class of arthropods within the phylum Arthropoda, characterized by a chitinous exoskeleton, a three-part body (head, thorax, abdomen), three pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes, and one pair of antennae. They are the most diverse group of animals on Earth, with over a million described species that include beetles, butterflies, bees, ants, and many others, representing more than half of all known living organisms. Insects play critical ecological roles as pollinators, decomposers, and as a part of the food web. They can thrive in almost every environment, from the coldest arctic areas to the hottest deserts. Some insects are beneficial to humans by pollinating crops, while others are pests that transmit diseases or cause agricultural damage. Their study, entomology, not only helps control harmful species but also aids in conservation efforts and in understanding biodiversity.