What substance primarily comprises the hard exoskeleton of Phylum Arthropoda members?
Answer
Chitin
The Phylum Arthropoda encompasses organisms characterized by a hard, external skeleton that provides structural support and protection. This defining exoskeleton is composed primarily of chitin, a tough, nitrogen-containing polysaccharide. This chitinous structure is essential for the tarantula's survival, serving dual roles as a rigid framework for muscle attachment and robust defense against external threats. Because this exoskeleton is rigid, growth in arthropods necessitates a process called molting, where the existing exoskeleton is shed to allow the organism to increase in size before the new external skeleton hardens.
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