Question

What is the site of gaseous exchange in an insect?

Answer 1

Hint: Gaseous exchange is taking in of oxygen and giving out of carbon dioxide. Gaseous exchange is important to carry out several physiological reactions in organisms. In insects the gaseous exchange takes place in tube like structures.

Complete answer:
Gaseous exchange is the process in which oxygen flows into the blood and carbon dioxide goes out of the blood through the respiratory membrane in the respiratory organ. For its efficiency, thin respiratory membrane, high speed of diffusion, high surface area and lipid solubility of carbon dioxide and oxygen is required. Insects use air-filled tubes called tracheae to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between their tissues and the air. This network of tubes is also called a tracheal system. Insect body contains small openings on the outer surface called spiracles.

Spiracles are connected to the internal tubes. Through these spiracles, oxygen rich air enters into the tracheae which further diffuse to cells of the body. Carbon dioxide follows the reverse path in case of gaseous exchange. It first enters into the tracheae and then leaves the body through spiracles. These outer openings, which go about as strong valves in certain bugs, lead to the inward respiratory framework, a thickly organized exhibit of cylinders called tracheae. This organization of cross over and longitudinal tracheae balances pressure all through the framework.

In Insects the gaseous exchange occurs through trachea.

Note:The respiratory system of insects is more direct and simple as compared to other respiratory systems. The spiracles are similar to nostrils in function. The spiracles are surrounded by tiny hairs to regulate the bulk air movement and also to prevent water loss.