Template:POTD/2009-03-20
Moulting phase of a Southern Hawker dragonfly (Aeshna cyanea). Arthropods possess an exoskeleton which provides support and defends the animal from mechanical injury. The exoskeleton however, is rigid and limits growth, and is periodically shed. The new exoskeleton is initially soft but hardens after the moulting of the exuvium (the old one).Photo credit: Böhringer Friedrich