The exoskeleton of arthropods is primarily made of
Arthropod exoskeleton consists primarily of chitin, linear polymer of N-acetylglucosamine with beta-1,4 glycosidic linkages, embedded in protein matrix of arthropodin and cross-linked via sclerotization with quinones to harden cuticle, further mineralized with calcium carbonate in crustaceans for crushing resistance. Two layered organization: outer epicuticle with waxes preventing desiccation and inner procuticle with exocuticle and endocuticle showing helicoidal Bouligand fiber arrangement conferring strength. Cellulose builds plant cell walls, keratin vertebrate hair, collagen vertebrate ten
Ref: Campbell Biology, 12th ed., Chapter 33: Ecdysis Chitin Exoskeleton; NCERT Class 11, Chapter 4
