INSECTS 67 



insect comes forth a fly, a mosquito, or a beetle. 



Freezing the Insect. The blood of insects is trans- 

 parent like water and is pushed along through the 

 body by the beating of a large vein or artery which 

 lies along the back, instead of by the beating of a 

 heart. Insects are cold-blooded and can freeze with- 

 out being killed. During the winter insects hiber- 

 nate; that is, a great many varieties live through 

 the winter hidden away among old grass or under 

 stones, logs, bark, and* in the ground. Even the 

 eggs of insects may be frozen solid and remain 

 uninjured. . 



Insect Life Short. Insects generally die soon 

 after laying their eggs, though some kinds live 

 longer, raising several broods. A great many die 

 before their eggs hatch. Insects are found in all 

 countries at all times of the year. They are found 

 in our homes, gardens, and fields; in the air, water, 

 and the earth: both within and upon the bodies of 

 animals. We shall learn more of the different kinds 

 of insects as we study the chapters on crops. 



QUESTIONS 



(1) How do insects compare in numbers with animals? 

 (2) Name some insects that are man's friends. (3) 

 Name the parts of the insect's body. (4) How many 

 legs have they? (5) What is the difference between 

 biting and sucking insects? (6) Why does a farmer need 

 to know how an insect takes its food? (7) Why do 

 insects moult? (8) Explain larva, pupa, and cocoon. 

 (9) What is peculiar about the blood of insects? (10) 

 What is meant by hibernating? 



