Arthropods

Arthropods (Arthropoda) form the most species-rich phylum in the animal kingdom. They are characterised by segmented bodies, paired jointed appendages and a chitinous exoskeleton, which must be shed during growth through moulting (ecdysis).

Major living lineages include the chelicerates (Chelicerata), such as spiders and scorpions; the myriapods (Myriapoda); and Pancrustacea, which includes crustaceans and hexapods, including insects.

Arthropods occupy nearly every terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitat and are fundamental to ecosystem function. As pollinators, decomposers, predators, herbivores, parasites and prey, they shape food webs, nutrient cycling, decomposition and soil formation, while many species also regulate populations of other organisms. TerraPlaza Magazine explores the biology, ecology, behaviour and husbandry of tarantulas, spiders, scorpions, insects, isopods, springtails and other arthropods, providing scientifically grounded information for the international terrarium-keeping community.