What is an insect?

Insects are small, six-legged creatures that belong to the class Insecta within the animal kingdom. They are characterized by having three main body parts (head, thorax, and abdomen), a pair of antennae, and usually one or two pairs of wings. Insects are the most diverse group of animals on Earth, with millions of species found in nearly every environment. They play essential roles in ecosystems, such as pollinating plants, decomposing organic matter, and serving as food for other animals.