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Chapter:
Arthropods

Chapter: Arthropods: Welcome

Synapomorphies

What makes an arthropod an arthropod?

  • Arthropoda is a phylum of invertebrates that includes a diverse array of species, including insects, spiders, crustaceans, and centipedes. Arthropods are characterized by their chitinous exoskeletons, which provide support and protection, and by their jointed appendages, which allow for flexibility and movement. Arthropods are the largest phylum in the animal kingdom and play important roles in many ecosystems, including as pollinators, decomposers, predators, and prey. They have a long evolutionary history and have adapted to a wide range of environments, from the deep sea to deserts and from temperate forests to tropical rainforests. Arthropods have also been important to human societies as a source of food, medicine, and inspiration for art and literature.

Chapter: Arthropods: Text
Image by Oleg Didenko

Subphylum: Chelicerata
(spiders, scorpions, ticks, mites, etc)

Giant Centipede

Subphylum: Myriapoda
(centipedes, millipedes, etc)

Image by Mackenzie Weber

Subphylum: Crustacea
(crabs, shrimps, remipedes, barnacles, etc)

Image by Elegance Thika

Subphylum: Hexapoda
(fleas, butterflies, dragonflies, bees, etc)

Chapter: Arthropods: Research

Resources

Chapter: Arthropods

Background Information

Total discovered species: 1 million+, estimated to be at 10 million+
Distribution: Worldwide in all environment; including deep cold ocean with immense pressure

Commonly Associated Terms

arthropoda

Evolutionary History & Adaptation

Coming Soon

Conservation and Threats

Coming Soon

Additional Resources

Coming Soon

Chapter: Arthropods: List

Chapter Advisors and Contributors

Avatar 85

John Doe
PhD Entomology

Lead Researcher at Bugtopia

Avatar 84

James Doe
MSc Insect Pest Management

Termite Specialist

Avatar 104

Ann Doe
MSc Aquatic Entomology

Entomologist at BugTech

Chapter: Arthropods: Our Team
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