Spiracles form a part of the abdomen region of the grasshopper. They consist of tiny holes that permit air to enter trachea. Spiracles lie along the sides of the abdomen and the thorax. Tubes stem out from the spiracles and carry air to all parts of the body for respiration. The trachea is the respiratory surface of the grasshopper. Since water travels easily along this surface, it is prone to water loss. The respiratory surface is protected thanks to spiracles.
Grasshoppers have two thoracic and eight abdominal spiracles. These insects have valves that allow them to close their spiracles, thus reducing water loss. Spiracles are known to possess intricate opening and closing mechanisms that are physiologically helpful to regulate air flow and lessen water loss from the insect.
Grasshoppers have two thoracic and eight abdominal spiracles. These insects have valves that allow them to close their spiracles, thus reducing water loss. Spiracles are known to possess intricate opening and closing mechanisms that are physiologically helpful to regulate air flow and lessen water loss from the insect.