Introduction to Arthropods

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to arthropods, including classification, structure, and function.

Kingdom Animalia

A classification that includes all animals.

Phylum Arthropoda

A major group in the animal kingdom characterized by jointed limbs and an exoskeleton.

Exoskeleton

A rigid external skeleton made of chitin, providing protection and muscle attachment.

Molting

The process of shedding the exoskeleton periodically.

Jointed appendages

Adapted structures for locomotion, feeding, reproduction, defense, and sensing the environment.

Chelicerae

Appendages modified into feeding structures found in arachnids.

Pedipalps

The second pair of appendages in arachnids, modified for capturing prey or sensing.

Cephalothorax

The combined head and thorax region in some arthropods, notably arachnids.

Spinnerets

Specialized organs in spiders for producing silk.

Biramous appendages

Appendages that are branched into two parts, characteristic of some crustaceans.

Class Myriapoda

A class of arthropods that includes centipedes and millipedes.

Dorsoventrally flattened

A body shape that is flattened from top to bottom, typical of centipedes.

Class Hexapoda

A class including insects, characterized by six legs.

Tracheae

An efficient respiratory system in insects that conducts air throughout the body.

Ovipositor

An organ used by female insects to lay eggs.

Compound eyes

Type of eye with multiple lenses found in many arthropods, providing a broad field of vision.

Malpighian tubules

Excretory structures in insects that help in waste removal and osmoregulation.