Exoskeleton: Insects have an external skeleton, or exoskeleton, which is made of a hard material called chitin. This exoskeleton protects insects from injury and desiccation, and it also provides support for their muscles.
Jointed Appendages: Insects have jointed appendages, which allow them to move in a variety of ways. These appendages include legs, wings, antennae, and mouthparts.
Wings: Most insects have wings, which allow them to fly. Wings are thin, membranous extensions of the exoskeleton that are supported by a network of veins.
Metamorphosis: Many insects undergo metamorphosis, which is a process of transformation from an immature stage to an adult stage. Metamorphosis can be either complete or incomplete. In complete metamorphosis, the insect goes through four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. In incomplete metamorphosis, the insect goes through three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
Respiratory System: Insects have a respiratory system that consists of a network of tubes called tracheae. The tracheae carry oxygen from the air to the insect's cells.
Circulatory System: Insects have a circulatory system that consists of a heart and a network of blood vessels. The heart pumps blood throughout the insect's body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells.
Nervous System: Insects have a nervous system that consists of a brain, nerves, and ganglia. The brain is the center of the nervous system and it controls the insect's movements, behavior, and senses.
Senses: Insects have a variety of senses, including vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. These senses allow insects to interact with their environment and find food, mates, and shelter.
Diversity: Insects are the most diverse group of animals on Earth. There are over 1 million known species of insects, and scientists estimate that there may be as many as 10 million species in total. Insects can be found in every habitat on Earth, from the tropics to the poles.