The: Insects

: The young, called nymphs, look like smaller, wingless versions of the adults and grow through a series of molts.

: They are a critical link in the food chain, providing high-protein meals for birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The Insects

: Scientists estimate there are roughly 1.4 billion insects for every human on Earth. : The young, called nymphs, look like smaller,

To be classified as an insect (class Insecta ), an animal must typically have: To be classified as an insect (class Insecta

: Insects act as nature's janitors, breaking down dead plant and animal matter, which returns vital nutrients to the soil.

: A hard external shell made of chitin that protects their organs. Because this shell cannot grow, insects must periodically molt to increase in size.

: An ant can carry more than 50 times its own body weight.