The cavity that surrounds the heart in insects is called what?

Study for the Comprehensive Entomology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

The cavity that surrounds the heart in insects is called what?

Explanation:
Insects have an open circulatory system, so the heart sits within a space between the heart itself and the body wall. That space, the pericardial cavity (often called the pericardial sinus), surrounds the heart and is part of the hemocoel. Hemolymph flows into and around this area and into the heart through ostia, then is pumped forward as the heart contracts. This space is what allows the heart to interact with the circulating fluid while remaining inside the body cavity.

Insects have an open circulatory system, so the heart sits within a space between the heart itself and the body wall. That space, the pericardial cavity (often called the pericardial sinus), surrounds the heart and is part of the hemocoel. Hemolymph flows into and around this area and into the heart through ostia, then is pumped forward as the heart contracts. This space is what allows the heart to interact with the circulating fluid while remaining inside the body cavity.

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