Knowra Insect leg Insect leg An insect leg is a segmented appendage attached to the thorax, typically built from six sections and ending in a foot. Legs support walking and can be modified for jumping, swimming, digging, grasping, or sensing.
Coxa : The basal segment of an arthropod leg, connecting it to the body. This segment anchors each insect leg to the thorax.
Arthropod exoskeleton : A rigid external skeleton that supports and protects arthropods while providing surfaces for muscle attachment. Leg muscles pull against its cuticular segments to produce movement.
Saltatorial leg : A leg adapted for jumping, usually with an enlarged femur that stores and releases muscular energy. Grasshoppers use this form to propel themselves in powerful jumps.
Insect wing : A flattened outgrowth of the insect thorax used primarily for flight or display. Wings arise from the thorax too, but are not segmented walking appendages.
Trochanter : A small segment between the coxa and femur in an arthropod leg. It forms the joint immediately beyond the leg’s attachment to the thorax.
Arthropod joint : A flexible connection between hardened parts of an arthropod’s exoskeleton. Flexible membranes at leg joints permit bending between rigid segments.
Raptorial leg : A grasping leg adapted to seize and hold prey, often with spines or opposing surfaces. Praying mantises use enlarged forelegs to capture prey.
Insect antenna : A paired sensory appendage on an insect’s head, commonly used to detect odors, touch, or air movement. Antennae are segmented appendages, but serve sensory rather than leg-based movement.
Femur : The proximal segment of an insect leg, usually the largest and strongest. Its size and muscle attachment help power movements such as jumping.
Insect muscle : Muscle tissue that powers movement in insects, including contractions within the thorax and limbs. Muscles move leg segments by pulling on the exoskeleton.
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