Shedding of the exoskeleton in arthropods to allow growth?

The shedding of the exoskeleton in arthropods is called molting. Arthropods have a hard outer covering called an exoskeleton that provides support and protection for their bodies. However, as they grow, their exoskeleton does not grow with them, so they must shed it in a process called molting.

During molting, the arthropod secretes enzymes that soften the old exoskeleton, allowing it to break open and be shed. The arthropod then absorbs water to expand its body and secretes a new, larger exoskeleton underneath. Once the new exoskeleton has hardened, the arthropod is able to continue growing until it needs to molt again.

Molting is a crucial process for arthropods as it allows them to grow and develop throughout their lives. It is also a vulnerable time for the arthropod, as they are soft and more susceptible to predators until their new exoskeleton hardens.