Size:
No other group in the animal kingdom contains the variety of forms that the world of insects includes. The size of insects ranges from fairy flies which are about six millimetres long and some beetle types which are only a quarter of a millimetre long, to giant insects such as the Goliath beetle which can grow up to ten centimetres long, and the Atlas moth which can spread its wings to a span of 25 centimetres.
Colour:
Many people thinks that insects are all dark in colour, but what about the butterflies, ladybirds and some varieties of moths? Several beetle species have a shiny metallic covering with different shades of colour. Most insects are dark in colour and are able to blend in with their background. Some grasshopper species are known for their ability to camouflage themselves against a range of backdrops.
Shape:
Insects come in all shapes and sizes. Some are stick like, some are short and fat, some look like thorns, snail shells and leaves. Ants, bees and wasps have an egg laying tool which can become a poisonous sting if they are threatened. Some insects have beaks and water scorpions have a snorkel-like device that helps them to swim.
Thorax:
The thorax is the part of the body designed for locomotion. There are three pairs of legs attached for running, jumping and grasping. Most insects also have a pair of wings attached to the thorax.