1. Insects (the rulers of Animalia!)
-Class: Insecta
-Largest group of arthropods
-More than 1 million species have been identified!
-Live almost anywhere (except oceans)
General Insect Anatomy
3 body regions = head, thorax, and abdomen
-Antennae (have a pair) = sensory structures used for touch, taste, and smell
-3 pairs of legs (6 total)
-usually have wings
-spiracle – opening to air tubes, used for breathing
-tympanum – hearing organ used in some insects

2. Let’s Take A Closer Look…
Using the dissecting scope, look at the ants and point out the 3 body segments & other unique features!

3. Complete vs. Incomplete Metamorphosis
Insect Development
Metamorphosis
series of developmental changes of an organism
Complete vs. Incomplete Metamorphosis
(Egg, Larva, Pupa, Adult)
(Egg, Nymph, Adult)

4. Ecological and Human Importance
Many plants require insects for their reproduction
Some insects are decomposers
Insects are important part of food webs
Some insects transmit diseases to humans
Some insect destroy crops