What are the differences between those creepy-crawlies? They are both under the phylum Arthropoda, which means that they both have exoskeletons and jointed legs. But they do have several differences. Here’s a couple tips to help you identify one the next time you seen it out in the park:
Insects are species that have three segments to their bodies: head, thorax, and abdomen. Arachnids have only two segments: the cephalothorax and the abdomen.
Insects have six legs, while arachnids have eight.
Insects undergo metamorphosis from a larva stage to an adult stage, while arachnids retain their adult shape and molt as they grow larger.
Insects have wings and antennae, while arachnids have neither.
The park contains many kinds of insects and arachnids - from giant Golden Orb Weavers to iridescent Blue Dashers and beyond. Important pollinators, like native bees and wasps, also find a home in the park. Check out the photo gallery to see some of the insects and arachnids found at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.
