Arthropods 2BIbDF09 10/11

What is an Arthropod?

Arthropods are eukaryotic multicellular heterotrophic organisms that obtain nutrients by ingestion. Arthropods are members of the most diverse phylum in the animal kingdom. They are named for their jointed appendages, which enable these animals to move despite their hard outer covering, the exoskeleton and have a segment body.

PICTURE needed. Head-Thorax-Abdoden

What is Arthropod's jointed appendages?

Limbs are a prominent feature of species in many phyla. They are particularly important in two major lineages: the ecdysozoans and the vertebrates. Some members of the Ecdysozoa, such as arthropods, have more complex, jointed limbs, which make fast, precise walking, running, jumping movements possible and are a prominent limb type in vertebrates and arthropods. Arthropod's appendages of different segments are variously adapted for walking, feeding, sensory reception, reproduction, swimming and defense. Thanks to the evolutionary flexibility of their segments and appendages, it contributes to the great diversification of arthropods.

PICTURE of appendages needed

What is the diversification of Arthropods?

The estimation about the total arthropod population numbers is a billion billion individuals, but only a million species has identified, mostly insects. They must be regarded as the most successful animal phylum. The major groups of Arthropods are Arachnids, Crustaceans, Millipedes and Centipedes, and Insects.

{{co|Maybe you could mention the main characteristics of each group.}