Ecdysis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Ecdyses)

Ecdysis is a biological process by which many arthropods grow. This process, also known as moulting or shedding, involves the animal periodically shedding its exoskeleton (outer protective covering) and forming a new one.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Ecdysis is a critical part of the life cycle of arthropods, including insects, crustaceans, and arachnids. The process is controlled by hormones and allows the animal to grow by discarding its old, restrictive exoskeleton. The new exoskeleton is initially soft, allowing the animal to increase in size before it hardens and provides protection again.

Process[edit | edit source]

The process of ecdysis begins with the separation of the old exoskeleton from the underlying skin, or epidermis. This is followed by the secretion of a new exoskeleton beneath the old one. Once the new exoskeleton is fully formed, the animal increases its intake of air or water to expand its body and break open the old exoskeleton. The animal then emerges and the new exoskeleton hardens.

Hormonal Control[edit | edit source]

The process of ecdysis is controlled by two main hormones: ecdysone and ecdysis-triggering hormone (ETH). Ecdysone is responsible for initiating the process of moulting, while ETH triggers the actual shedding of the old exoskeleton.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Ecdysis Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD