Insects can come in lots of different shapes and sizes, but there are a few traits that all insects share. According to Merriam-Webster, an insect is defined as “any of a class (Insecta) of arthropods (such as bugs or bees) with well-defined head, thorax, and abdomen, only three pairs of legs, and typically one or two pairs of wings.”
From that definition, we can conclude that typically insects have three main body segments (head, thorax, abdomen), six legs (three pairs), and typically wings (either one or two pairs). They also typically have compound eyes, a mouth or mouthparts, and antennae
Looking for an easy way to remember most of the different parts of insects? Check out the song below! Follow along with the lyrics and the accompanying movements. It can be sung to the tune of “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes.”
🎶
Head
(point to head)
Thorax
(point to shoulders)
Abdomen, Abdomen
(point to stomach)
Head
(point to head)
Thorax
(point to shoulders)
Abdomen, Abdomen
(point to stomach)
Compound Eyes and Mouth
(point to eyes and mouth)
6 Legs and Sometimes Wings
(wiggle 6 fingers and flap arms like wings)
Head, Thorax, Abdomen, Abdomen!
🎶
