insect respiratory system

Insects breathe through a network of tiny tubes called tracheae that run throughout their bodies. Air enters these tubes via small openings on the outside called spiracles, usually located on the abdomen or thorax. The oxygen travels directly through the tracheae to reach muscles and organs, while carbon dioxide exits the same way. This system allows insects to efficiently deliver oxygen directly to their tissues without the need for a circulatory pump, supporting their active lifestyles. The setup is specialized for rapid and efficient gas exchange suited to their size and metabolic needs.