insekty

Insekty (Insecta) are a class of arthropods that includes more described species than any other group of animals. They are distinguished by a three-part body plan consisting of a head, a thorax and an abdomen; three pairs of jointed legs; usually one or two pairs of wings; and an exoskeleton made of chitin. Insects typically have one pair of antennae and compound eyes. They breathe through a network of tracheae that deliver air directly to tissues. Their great diversity allows them to inhabit almost every terrestrial and freshwater habitat.

They display two major types of metamorphosis: incomplete (egg, nymphs, adults) and complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Life cycles vary widely; some species reproduce rapidly, others have prolonged immaturity. Insects occupy numerous ecological roles: pollinators, herbivores, detritivores, predators, and prey. Many provide essential ecosystem services, such as pollination of crops and natural pest control, while others can be pests or vectors of disease. Social insects, including ants, bees, and termites, form complex colonies with division of labor.

Human interactions and conservation: Insects influence agriculture, forestry and health, offering benefits such as pollination and biological control, but they can also cause crop damage and spread diseases. Global insect declines have raised concerns about ecosystem stability. Conservation and management efforts focus on habitat protection, pollinator-friendly practices, sustainable pest management, and reducing pesticide use.