Transcription 2/3/2026, 8:01:20 pm

Notes

• Explanation of Biodiversity Biodiversity is the variety of all living things on Earth, ranging from microorganisms, fungi, plants, and animals to the ecosystems they form. • Importance of Insect Biodiversity Insect biodiversity is important to all life on Earth, as insects comprise over 80% of known terrestrial species. Here are four reasons why insects are vital: 1. They are essential for pollination of plants and crops, which is crucial for food production. 2. They play a key role in decomposition and returning nutrients back into the soil, helping maintain soil health. 3. They are a vital foundation of the food web, providing essential food for birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals. 4. Predatory insects act as natural biological control agents by keeping populations of harmful insects in check. • Features of Organisms Classified as Insecta Insects have several defining features: - They possess an exoskeleton and a segmented body. - They have at least three pairs of jointed legs, as they are arthropods. - Their bodies are divided into three main sections: the head, thorax, and abdomen. - They typically have a pair of lower jaws and upper jaws. - They have one ...