Which is the largest, most diverse group of arthropods? A. centipedes B. millipedes C. insects D. arachnids E. crustaceans
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. insects.
Insects are the largest and most diverse group of arthropods, with over 1 million described species, and many more undiscovered ones. They account for about 75% of all known animal species on Earth. The diversity of insects is remarkable, and they can be found in nearly every habitat, from the deepest parts of the ocean to the highest mountain peaks.
This vast group includes species such as beetles, butterflies, ants, flies, mosquitoes, and grasshoppers, each adapted to a unique ecological niche. Insects have evolved a wide range of body forms, behaviors, and ecological roles, contributing significantly to pollination, decomposition, and food webs.
Insects also exhibit incredible adaptation mechanisms. For example, some species have wings, enabling them to travel across vast distances, while others, like ants, live in highly organized social colonies. The ability to undergo metamorphosis (complete or incomplete) has also helped insects adapt to different environments at various life stages.
Their success can be attributed to several factors, including their small size, exoskeleton, rapid reproduction rates, and ability to exploit various resources. Insects’ high reproductive rates allow them to adapt quickly to environmental changes, making them one of the most resilient and widespread groups of organisms on Earth.
Comparatively, other arthropod groups like arachnids, crustaceans, millipedes, and centipedes are far less diverse. While important in their own right, these groups don’t match the sheer number of species and ecological roles filled by insects. Therefore, insects hold the title as the largest and most diverse group of arthropods.
