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  • Current: Jul 23, 2022

Exoskeleton

Exoskeleton is the hard external skeleton. The main function of exoskeleton is to support the body and protect internal organs.

Exoskeleton of many organisms (e.g., crustaceans and insects) is made of a layered cuticle [1].


Exoskeleton

Definitions in the literature

  • Crustaceans have a rigid exoskeleton, which is made of a layered cuticle, covering the soft body parts for protection from conspecific competitors and/or interspecific predators [1].
  • External skeleton; hard external parts that muscles attach to and move [2].
  • a rigid external skeleton that supports the body, protects the internal organs, and has flexible joints that allow for movement [3].