Ladybugs

Adaptation

The process by which a species becomes more fit for its environment over the course of several generations. It is a result of natural selection.

Antenna

An organ on the head of insects used to sense touch, smell, and taste.

Arthropod

A large group of invertebrates consisting of insects, arachnids, myriapods, and crustaceans.

Burrow

An underground, tunnel-like shelter.

Compound Eyes

Complex organs used by some insects and crustaceans (like crabs) to see by collecting many tiny images to gain a wide view.

Exoskeleton

A hard exterior that supports and protects many species of invertebrates.

Insect

A class of invertebrates with 6 legs, 2 body segments, and a pair of antennae.

Invertebrate

An animal that has no bones.

Nectar

A sweet, sugary liquid produced by flowers.

Ovipositor

The structure used by insects to deposit eggs.

Pollen

A small, grain-like substance produced by a flower's anther that is used in fertilization of the flower.

Pollination

The movement of pollen from the male part of a plant (anther) to the female part (stigma) to make fertile seeds.

Predator

An animal that hunts other animals for food.

Prey

An animal that is hunted and eaten by another animal.

Proboscis

A straw-like structure used by many insects to slurp up nectar.

Setae

Hair-like structures used by some invertebrates to detect vibrations.

Social

Living in a group with other members of the same species.

Solitary

Describing an animal that lives alone.

Species

A closely related group of animals with similar characteristics that are capable of reproducing (example: tigers).

Venom

A toxin that is injected into prey through teeth or a stinger.

Vertebrate

An animal that has a backbone.