A protective, waterproofing structure consisting of several cuticle layers is the __________.
a. endoskeleton
b. exoskeleton
c. labium
d. ocelli
Answer (3)
The answer is exoskeleton .
The correct answer is exoskeleton. It consists of layers including the epicuticle and the chitinous procuticle, forming a protective and waterproof structure. This enables arthropods to grow through molting. Option b is correct.
In arthropods, the cuticle serves as a tough, waterproof protective layer. This cuticle comprises several layers, including the epicuticle and the chitinous procuticle, which together form the rigid exoskeleton.
This structure not only protects the animal but also provides support and helps prevent dehydration. Some arthropods, like crustaceans, add calcium salts to their exoskeletons to enhance strength, though at the cost of flexibility.
This structure allows arthropods to grow and adapt through periodic shedding in a process known as molting or ecdysis, where the old exoskeleton is replaced by a new one.
The protective waterproof structure consisting of several cuticle layers is known as the exoskeleton. It provides defense, support, and prevents water loss in arthropods, and is crucial for their growth and mobility through the process of molting. The chosen answer is exoskeleton .
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