EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The problem of growth is solved in arthropods by molting, or ecdysis, the periodic shedding of the old exoskeleton. The underlying cells release enzymes that digest the base of the old exoskeleton (much of the endocuticle) and then secrete a new exoskeleton beneath the old one.

Detailed explanation-2: -In arthropods, such as insects, arachnids and crustaceans, moulting is the shedding of the exoskeleton (which is often called its shell), typically to let the organism grow.

Detailed explanation-3: -Although arthropods grow, their exoskeletons do not grow with them. So they must periodically shed, or “molt” their exoskeletons in favor of a new one. Arthropods ("arthro” meaning joint, and “pod” meaning leg) also have jointed appendages. Lost limbs can gradually be regenerated after successive moltings.

Detailed explanation-4: -The outermost layer is called the cuticle. The cuticle protects the insect against physical injury and water loss, as well as provides rigidity for muscle. It is this outermost layer that sheds during a molt.

Detailed explanation-5: -The exoskeleton (shared with other arthropods) provides protection against predation and desiccation or waterlogging (necessary for small organisms) and innumerable points of muscle attachment (for flexibility). However, the exoskeleton also limits the size attainable by arthropods.