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February 15, 2019
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Why do insects have shells instead of skin?

They wear their skeletons on the outside of their bodies, and they can change these shells just like we change our clothes. When a bug outgrows its bony skin, it sheds it – a process called molting – and grows a new one. The old armor is left behind, although giant centipedes will actually eat their discarded skeletons.

The hard outer shell protects the insect in other ways as well. It helps keep out germs and harmful chemicals. The shell acts as a shock absorber and as a shield against too much heat or cold. It also protects the insect from some of its enemies.

 

Picture Credit : Google

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