This is how they grow.
The old exoskeleton splits, then the body expands rapidly before the new exoskeleton hardens.
The exoskelton of an arthropod is hard, and thus cannot accomodate growth. So an arthropod must periodically replace it.
exoskeleton, chitin, molting
the outter skin. as the arthropod grows, the outter skin doesn't grow with it. than it gets rid of it by molting!
Arthropods molt (moult) in a process called ecdysis. It is necessary for growth because of the inflexibility of the exoskeleton. The old shell remnants are called exuviae. Note that the term 'anthropod' should not be confused with 'arthropod'; anthropods are humans or humanoids and do not moult in the canonic sense.
Molting
Molting
Molting limits an arthropod's size because the process involves shedding the exoskeleton to allow for growth, which temporarily leaves the animal vulnerable. During molting, the arthropod must expand its body before the new exoskeleton hardens, making it susceptible to predation and environmental hazards. Additionally, the need to produce a new, larger exoskeleton imposes physical constraints on growth, as the structure must be strong enough to support the organism. Consequently, these factors can restrict the maximum size that arthropods can achieve.
Ecdysis is when an arthropod molts its exoskeleton. Molting is necessary. The arthropod exoskeleton is inflexible, so, for it to grow larger, arthropods must molt.
Its new exoskeleton is soft.
Molting
Ecdysis, commonly known as molting. During molting, arthropods shed their old exoskeleton and form a new, larger one to accommodate their growth. This process is essential for arthropods to maintain their size and continue their development.
The outer part of an arthropod is called the exoskeleton. This hard, protective structure is made of chitin and serves to support the body, protect internal organs, and prevent water loss. The exoskeleton must be periodically shed and replaced in a process known as molting, allowing for growth.