Arthropods
Arthropods
arthropod - an animal that has a jointed exoskeleton
Crustaceans - one kind of arthropod. Lobsters, crabs,
arachnids - spiders, scorpions, mites - have eight legs, no antennae, book lungs
Insects - animals with six jointed legs and many have wings (largest group of arthropods)
Characteristics
exoskeleton covers and protects body and gives it support
jointed legs
jointed body
digestive system with 2 openings
circulatory system and a brain
molts so exoskeleton can grow with animal
well developed organs for site, sound and touch
Adaptations
Lobsters - legs are adapted to catch prey and carry to mouth. Lobsters claws crush shells of oysters or clams and are 2 sizes for defense and tearing food.
Arachnids - many have sharp body parts that inject poison
Tarantulas - legs are evenly spaced for balance while walking and climbing
Grasshoppers - mouths are adapted for crushing food and back legs are powerful for jumping.