Differences Between Spiders and Insects
WouterSpiders and insects have many similarities, but are different animals. While both have jointed legs, they have other differences that make them distinct from each other. These differences include their exoskeletons and body parts.
Insects are classified into two groups: the order Hemiptera and the class Arthropoda. Some insects have wings, while others do not. The former group includes insects such as centipedes, beetles, ants, and spiders. Among the many kinds of insects, there are wingless insects like silverfish. There are also winged insects, such as dragonflies and grasshoppers.
Insects have three main body parts: the head, the abdomen, and the legs. Insects can be predators, herbivores, or parasites. They have special organs to taste food and sense vibrations. Each type has its own unique way of eating.
Arachnids have an exoskeleton, but it is not as hard as that of insects. They have two additional pairs of appendages, which are used for feeding and digestion.
Spiders do not have a coxa. Their bodies are organized into a cephalothorax, with internal breathing systems. Chelicerae are hollow mouth parts that are used by spiders to eat. They are also used by web-builders to cut silk filaments. Venomous glands are also located in these mouth parts. This enables spiders to inject venom into their prey.
Arachnids are usually found on land and in fresh water, but some live in oceans. Some arachnids are predatory, while others are more omnivorous.
The majority of arachnids have eight legs. However, there are some species with only four. A few have other features, including silk glands.
