Answer to Question #126560 in Microbiology for Akosah Addoh

Question

Describe briefly with suitable examples why insects are so abundant in the
ecosystem?

Answer 1

1. Exoskeleton. Insects have their skeletons on the outside of the body. this exoskeletons gives them structure, shape and support to the body's soft tissues but also provides protection from attack and injury. for example, an ant can lift up to 50 times it's own weight.
2. Flight. Flight helps insects escape from predators that existed in the prehistoric times. Flight also acted as a means of transportation, allowing their population to grow more quickly. for example, locusts can fly for 9 hours without stopping.
3. Reproduction Potential. In insects females often produce large numbers of eggs, most of the eggs hatch which results to higher chances of survival. the life cycle is relatively short ranging from 2-4 weeks, Females can lay between 100-500 eggs during their lifetime. e.g The queen of an African termite colony may be mother of more than ten million workers during her 20-35 years lifespan.