What is the process by which an arthropod sheds its exoskeleton to grow?

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The process by which an arthropod sheds its exoskeleton to grow is known as molting. Arthropods, including insects, crustaceans, and arachnids, possess a rigid exoskeleton made of chitin, which provides structural support and protection. However, this exoskeleton does not grow as the organism grows.

To accommodate growth, arthropods must periodically shed their old exoskeleton in a process called molting, or ecdysis. During molting, the arthropod detaches its old exoskeleton and secretes a new, larger one beneath it. This allows for increased body size and necessary growth. After shedding, the new exoskeleton is initially soft, allowing for expansion before it hardens into its final form.

Other processes mentioned do not involve the shedding of an exoskeleton for growth. Metamorphosis refers to the biological process whereby an organism transforms from immature forms to an adult stage, often involving significant changes in form and function. Retention is not a biological term related to growth or exoskeletal processes in arthropods. Fossilization is the process in which organic material becomes preserved as a fossil, often through mineralization, and is not related to growth

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