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Big Bend National Park
What makes an insect an insect?
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What makes an insect an insect and separates insects from other small hard-bodied creatures?
First, all insects are arthropods, animals that lack backbones and have jointed legs and external skeletons, or exoskeletons. Arthropods include such diverse animals as roaches, millipedes, tarantulas, and lobsters. Second, all insects have three distinct body parts: a head, a thorax, and an abdomen; many other arthropods have either more or fewer body areas. Third, almost all insects have wings. No other group of arthropods can fly. Fourth, all insects have two antennae and six legs. Most other arthropods have eight or more legs. Their tiny size, quick reproduction rate, and ability to fly enable insects to explore and exploit almost every environmental niche imaginable.
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Allison Leavitt |
Large groups of ladybugs can be found at the highest peaks of the Chisos mts. in the summertime |
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Did You Know?
The largest spider found in Big Bend National Park is the Tarantula. Males are often seen crossing the roads in late summer or early fall searching for a mate.
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Last Updated: June 26, 2006 at 12:59 EST |