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Insects are the most populous creatures on earth, which is largely because their bodies are very resistant to many adverse conditions. One of the factors in their resistance is the chitin substance that forms their skeletons.
Chitin is extremely lightweight and thin. Insects never face hardship maintaining it. Although it wraps the body externally, it is sturdy enough to act as a skeleton. At the same time, it is outstandingly flexible. It can be moved by means of muscles attached to it from inside the body. This not only improves the rapid movement of the insects but also decreases the impact of external blows. It is waterproof because of a special exterior coating, which doesn't allow seepage of any body fluids.46 It is unaffected by heat or radiation. Most of the time, its colour fits the surroundings perfectly. Sometimes it signals warnings through bright colours.
What would happen if such a substance as chitin were used in aircraft and space ships? In fact, this is the dream of many scientists.
 |  | Chitin, which forms the exoskeletons of many insects, is an ideal material. It is strong, flexible and has insulation features. |
| The Abdomen of the Desert Scorpion The abdomens of insects are created to different designs depending on body structure and activity. For example, the desert scorpion is covered with highly sensitive organs called rake, with which scorpions sense the hardness of the soil and determine the most appropriate place to lay eggs. | ||
The Ideal Shape of Red Blood Cells
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| red blood cell |
