Exoskeletons – The Armor of the Arthropods

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Animal Body Armour – Exoskeleton
Many of the animals we are familiar with are vertebrates. Vertebrates are animals with a backbone and an internal skeleton of bones. Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish are all vertebrates. The skeleton provides vertebrates with structure and support. It also protects vital organs like the heart, lungs and brain.

Most of the animals on Earth don’t have a backbone or internal skeleton. They’re called invertebrates. While some invertebrates like worms, jellyfish and octopus have soft bodies, many have a hard outer covering called an exoskeleton. It’s like a skeleton on the outside of their bodies.

Insects, like ants, bees and beetles have exoskeletons made of a substance called chitin. Like the internal skeleton of vertebrates, the exoskeleton gives the insects shape, helps them move and provides protection. It also helps to prevent water loss. Lobsters, crabs, scorpions and spiders are other animals with an exoskeleton made of chitin.