arthropoder
Arthropoder, commonly referred to as arthropods, is a broad and diverse phylum of invertebrate animals characterized by a segmented body, jointed limbs, and an exoskeleton made of chitin. The exoskeleton provides protection and support but requires periodic molting as the organism grows. The combination of segmentation, jointed appendages, and an adaptable body plan has enabled arthropods to colonize virtually all habitats, from deep oceans to deserts and high mountains.
Arthropods are divided into four major groups: Hexapoda (primarily insects and their relatives), Crustaceans (crabs, shrimp,
Most arthropods possess specialized respiratory systems: book lungs or tracheae in various groups, and gills in
Ecology and human relevance: arthropods play central roles as pollinators, decomposers, and sources of food for