Crackin' the shell
Arthropod Dissection Isaiah Ware PreAp Biology April 8 2014
Objective
Background information
Taxonomy
The scientific name of an arthropod varies. It depends on what animal it is. The phylum is Arthropoda.
Ecology
Arthropods can either live in the sea or on land. They are also located in many different areas through out the world. The diet of arthropods also varies, depending on which animal you are looking at. There are carnivorous and herbivorous arthropods. Predators also vary, but it is usually a larger fish that eats them.
Evolutionary Adaptations
Arthropods developed a hard exoskeleton around their bodies. This is great for protection against s predators. Some arthropods can shed their exoskeletons and grow a brand new one.
Human Impact
Exterminators use chemicals to kill insect arthropods like scorpions or beetles. Arthropods such as crawfish, crabs, and lobsters are a very popular dish for humans. Mass fishing for these animals can cut down on their population.
Dissection
System Of Focus: Integumentary System
The integumentary system of arthropods is their hard outer shell. This shell protects them from predators. The whole outer covering of the arthropod is their integumentary system. The arthropod sheds its shell when it gets too small and grows a new one. The shell is broken into segments. For crickets, it's the head, thorax, and abdomen. For crayfish, it's the cephalothorax and abdomen.