Understanding insect body parts helps with accurate pest identification.
| Body Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Head |
- Contains the eyes, mouthparts, and antennae. - Different pests have different mouthparts (chewing, sucking, piercing). - Aphids and whiteflies have needle-like mouthparts, while caterpillars have strong chewing jaws. |
| Thorax |
- Middle section of the body, where legs and wings are attached. - Insects may have 2 or 4 wings (e.g., flies have 2, butterflies have 4). - The number and shape of legs help differentiate insect groups. |
| Abdomen |
- The rear section containing the digestive and reproductive organs. - Some pests, like aphids, have visible cornicles (tailpipe-like structures). - Parasitic wasps lay eggs inside pests, emerging from the abdomen. |
| Wings |
- Not all insects have wings; many pests like thrips and whiteflies are winged. - The way wings fold can help with identification (e.g., moths vs butterflies). |
| Legs |
- All insects have six legs, but the shape and size vary. - Jumping insects (like flea beetles) have enlarged hind legs. - Some predatory insects have raptorial forelegs for catching prey. |