What Do Spiracles Do?

Structure of the spiracle
Insects have spiracles on their exoskeletons to allow air to enter the trachea. In insects, the tracheal tubes primarily deliver oxygen directly into the insects' tissues. The spiracles can be opened and closed in an efficient manner to reduce water loss.

How do spiracles work?

In fish, spiracles are composed of a pair of openings just behind the fish's eyes that allow it to draw oxygenated water in from above without having to bring it in through the gills. The spiracles open into the fish's mouth, where water is passed over its gills for gas exchange and out of the body.

What do spiracles do for insects?

Instead of nostrils, insects breathe through openings in the thorax and abdomen called spiracles. Insects that are diapausing or non-mobile have low metabolic rates and need to take in less oxygen. Insects exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide through spiracles (noted by circle).

Sophia Al-Mansoor

Sophia Al-Mansoor

Global Business & E-Commerce Reporter

Sophia analyzes international trade, startup ecosystems, retail transformation, and supply chain logistics for modern digital publications.