Crustaceans harden their shells with calcium, while insects harden them with oxygen. These match what is abundant in their respective habitats. Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible ...

The researchers also analyzed the cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) that cover the outermost layer (cuticle) of virtually all plants and insects, serving as a waterproofing agent and as a ...

But in fact, the cuticle is crucial to a plant’s survival. It regulates everything from gas exchange to water permeability, and even controls which insects are able to land on the plant – to ...