Protura facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Protura |
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| A Protura called Acerentomon doderoi | |
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Protura
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The Protura are a special group of tiny animals. They are sometimes called coneheads because of their cone-shaped heads. These creatures are part of a larger group called Hexapoda, which means they have six legs.
Protura are very small, usually less than 2 millimeters long. They live hidden in soil, leaf litter, and moss. They are often found in damp places where there is plenty of decaying plant material.
Contents
What are Protura?
Protura are unique because they do not have antennae or eyes. Instead, they use their front legs like feelers to explore their surroundings. These front legs are held up in the air and are packed with sensory organs.
They also have a special way of growing. Unlike many insects, they do not go through a pupa stage. Instead, they grow by adding more body segments as they get older. This type of growth is called anamorphosis.
Their Place in the Animal Kingdom
For a long time, scientists thought Protura were a type of insect. However, they are now placed in their own group within the Hexapoda. This group is called Entognatha, which also includes springtails and diplurans.
The main difference is that insects have mouthparts outside their head. Protura, along with other Entognatha, have their mouthparts hidden inside a pouch in their head. This is why they are not considered true insects.
Where Protura Live
Protura are found all over the world, from tropical forests to cooler regions. They prefer moist environments. You can often find them in the top layers of soil, under rocks, or in rotting wood.
They play a role in the ecosystem by helping to break down decaying plant matter. This process returns nutrients to the soil, which helps new plants grow.
What Protura Eat
Scientists believe that Protura mainly feed on fungi and decaying plant material. They use their tiny mouthparts to suck up liquids from these food sources. This makes them important decomposers in their habitats.
Their diet helps keep the soil healthy. By eating fungi and dead plants, they contribute to the natural recycling of nutrients in the environment.
Images for kids
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A Protura photographed in Durham, NC
See also
In Spanish: Proturos para niños
