The old shed skin left behind after an insect is known as the-
The old shed skin left behind after an insect is known as the exoskeleton or the exuvia
The old shed skin left behind after an insect is known as the exoskeleton or the exuvia.
The exoskeleton is the external covering or skeleton of an insect. It acts as a protective layer and provides support and structure to the insect’s body. Insects have a hard exoskeleton made of a substance called chitin, which is a type of polysaccharide.
As insects grow and develop, they undergo a process called molting or ecdysis. During molting, the insect sheds its old exoskeleton in order to accommodate its increasing size. The new exoskeleton is already formed underneath the old one. Once the old exoskeleton is shed, the insect expands its body by taking in air or water, and the new exoskeleton hardens and becomes the outer covering.
The shed exoskeleton, also known as the exuvia, is typically left behind on surfaces where the insect molted. It can serve as evidence of the presence of certain insects, as well as provide insight into their life cycle and growth.
The exuvia can be studied by entomologists to identify the species of the insect, as it retains the distinctive characteristics of the previous exoskeleton. It can also be used to examine the insect’s growth patterns and determine the age and development stage of the insect.
In conclusion, the old shed skin left behind after an insect is called the exoskeleton or exuvia. It plays a crucial role in the growth and development of insects and provides valuable information for scientists studying these fascinating creatures.
More Answers:
The Importance of the Wax Layer: Waterproofing, Desiccation Prevention, and Protection in ArthropodsThe Remarkable Adaptations and Roles of the Insect Abdomen: A Comprehensive Overview
The Ins and Outs of Monarch Butterfly Overwintering: Importance, Survival Strategy, and Conservation Efforts