Cuticle: Ecological Significance

摘要: The morphological and chemical complexity of the arthropod cuticle reflects many diverse important functions performed by this multilayered external covering. As noted Beament (1976), integument is an integral part such physiological processes as locomotion, respiration, feeding, excretion, osmoregulation. It serves interface between organism environment and, in so doing, helps resist influx disease-causing microorganisms, insecticides, other potentially harmful contaminants addition to providing mechanical protection. In species, also effectively deters predators, either a result its being physical barrier or because camouflage and/or mimicry created elaborate surface structures colours. latter can protect against ultraviolet radiation provide limited thermal benefits for some terrestrial species through increased absorption reflection solar insolation. Chemical compounds associated with produce signals form patterns which act visual cues enhance recognition location. No cuticular function, however, perhaps more from both immediate evolutionary standpoint than role restricting water loss. one feature that was essential transition arthropods aquatic existence, largely responsible various forms observed general today.