desert bugs - Top That! Publishing

EAT UP
Insects have varied feeding habits, and their feeding parts, including feet and
mouths, are designed to munch through the dinner of the day. Some insects
can eat just about anything – others are more selective.
What do insects eat
Insects enjoy a varied menu and will eat just about
anything, depending on the species. An insect supper
includes plants, nectar, other insects,
blood, fruit, seeds
and human food.
Sometimes an
insect’s mouthparts
are designed to suit a
A weevil.
certain purpose. A weevil,
for example, has tiny jaws at the end of a curved
snout. It bites (or drills) tiny holes in plants.
How does a praying mantis
eat its prey
The praying mantis looks suspiciously leaf-like. Its green
colour enables it to stalk its prey before grabbing
it with its spiky front legs. It then uses its
mighty jaws to slice through
the victim’s body.
A praying
mantis.
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How do mosquitoes spread disease
Mosquitoes drink blood and any viruses that are
contained within it. When the mosquito feasts on a
new victim, it can pass on diseases, such as malaria.
The mosquito is responsible for more human deaths in
Africa than any other creature.
The blood-sucking mosquito can spread disease.
What are parasites
A parasite is any animal that lives off another, different
animal without giving anything in return. The itch mite is
a good example of this and can live off humans who do
not wear sufficient protective clothing. The mite burrows
underneath the skin and lays eggs, which emerge as
larvae two or three days later. All this activity under the
skin can be itchy, with scratching making it worse,
leading to infection.