What anatomical differences help the arthropods to survive away from water?

Answer 1

It is difficult to answer your question about differences without knowing what you want to compare the arthropods with! However, we can look at the general features which arthropods have. 1) An external skeleton (an exoskeleton). This is a relatively hard structure, made of a material called chitin, which provides protection, waterproofing and attachment for muscles. Waterproofing is a key factor in allowing arthropods to live on the land, where water loss is a major problem. 2) Jointed legs. An inflexible exoskeleton poses a problem if you want to walk! This was solved by developing joints in the legs. Jointed legs also allow rapid movement (think of a spider!). 3) A segmented body. The body is composed of similar units called segments. These can become specialised in different parts of the body for different functions. The limbs attached to different segments can also specialise. 4) Compound eyes. These have hundreds or thousands of lenses in each eye which are very good at detecting movement. For more information see: http://www.ndsu.nodak.edu/entomology/topics/arthropods.htm http://evolution.berkeley.edu/evolibrary/article/_0_0/arthropods_intro_05

Answer 2

Cuticles- prevention of water loss

Wings- ability to travel fast and far

Adapted/Evolved respiration systems for more efficient use of O2

Tough Exoskeletons for protection and support of mass.