anthropod limb development

In arthropods, such as insects and crustaceans, limb development begins from specific segments called limb buds that form during embryo growth. These buds contain specialized cells that follow genetic instructions to grow and differentiate into limbs like antennae, legs, or wings. The process involves the expression of certain genes (e.g., Hox genes) that determine limb position and identity. As development progresses, limbs elongate and segment into parts like joints, enabling movement. This coordinated growth results in the diverse array of limbs seen across arthropod species, each adapted to their particular functions and environments.