does an insect's exoskeleton limit growth?why or why not?

Answer 1

I think the surface area to body mass ratio is the factor in growing. Insects breath through their skin, a small bug has a large surface area compared to it's body mass, so it can get plenty of oxygen. A large bug would have less surface area compared to it's body mass, so it would have a problem getting enough oxygen to survive. Try an expirement with two bugs, one in a container with a bottle of oxygen piped in and the other with just regular atmoshere. There should be a noticeable difference in size after a few days.

Answer 2

An exoskeleton does not grow, so the insect can only grow as large as its exoskeleton allows until it molts.

So, I'd say, "Yes, the exoskeleton doesn't grow."
And I'd say, "No, the exoskeleton can be molted or shed, and the insect's new exoskeleton will harden into a larger size."

Answer 3

No.

Insects have a passive respiratory system which relies on diffusion to carry oxygen to every cell in their body. This limits their size, not their exoskeleton.

Answer 4

No.
An exoskeleton, just like our bones, grows with us. A simple example is a snail, who is born with a very and thin shell. The shell grows in proportion to the snail's growth.

Answer 5

i dont think so. i think since the exoskeleton probly has veins and nerves somewhat, then it has to ability to grow with the animal.

Answer 6

Of course!!!! That's why it is shed so often--- to allow for growth.

Answer 7

no because it can molt its exoskeliton to grow, now if it couldnt do that then yes!

Answer 8

inchersting