The Insects Internal Structure Part 1 :
The Circulatory System
The insect's internal structure is a lot more complex than the veterbrate's, therefore that is why I have decided to split this topic into different pages. On this page, you will learn about the insect's circulatory system, it's basic function, and what it is composed of.
This is page 1 out of our internal insect page. Enjoy and absorb!
The Circulatory System
The insect circulatory system is a lot different to ours. We have a closed circulatory system, whereas they have an open one. A closed circulatory system involves blood vessels, whereas in an open one blood flows freely.
The main role of the circulatory system is to help pass nutrients and waste products through the body. It also helps with clotting, disposes of internal invaders( such as bacteria and internal parasites) , and creates chemicals to ward off predators.
Picture A shows perfectly what a closed circulatory system ( ours and other vertebrates) looks like.
Picture B is of a Bumble Bees internal structure. The white arrows coming from the end of the dorsal vessel indicate the free flow of haemolymph around the insects body.
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The Dorsal Vessel is situated at the bottom of the insect's body, the abdomen, and runs all the way up to the brain.
It is the insect's version of a heart. It is separated by small chambers known as the Ostia, which allow Haemolymph (Insect Blood) to flow through or out of the dorsal vessel.
The Haemolymph flows through Dorsal Vessel( Heart) and empties near the top of the brain, near the aorta.
Most Haemolymph is clear, but sometimes it can be green or even yellow.