Editing Ecdysis (section)

==Process==
{{more footnotes needed|section|date=May 2024}}
In preparation for ecdysis, the arthropod becomes inactive for a period of time, undergoing [[apolysis]] or separation of the old exoskeleton from the underlying epidermal cells. For most organisms, the resting period is a stage of preparation during which the secretion of fluid from the moulting glands of the epidermal layer and the loosening of the underpart of the cuticle occurs.
Once the old cuticle has separated from the epidermis, a digesting fluid is secreted into the space between them. However, this fluid remains inactive until the upper part of the new cuticle has been formed. Then, by crawling movements, the organism pushes forward in the old [[Integumentary system|integumentary shell]], which splits down the back allowing the animal to emerge. Often, this initial crack is caused by a combination of movement and increase in pressure of hemolymph within the body, forcing an expansion across its [[exoskeleton]], leading to an eventual crack that allows for certain organisms such as [[spider]]s to extricate themselves.
While the old cuticle is being digested, the new layer is secreted. All cuticular structures are shed at ecdysis, including the inner parts of the exoskeleton, which includes terminal linings of the [[alimentary tract]] and of the [[invertebrate trachea|trachea]]e if they are present.
{{Multiple image
| header = Physiology of ecdysis
| direction = horizontal
| align = center
| width = 240
| image1 = The-arthropods-moulting-1.gif
| alt1 = The process of moulting in insects begins with the separation of the cuticle from the underlying epidermal cells.
| image2 = The-arthropods-moulting-2.gif
| alt2 = After the separation, moulting fluid is secreted into the space between the old cuticle and the epidermis (the exuvial space); this contains inactive enzymes which are activated only after the new epicuticle is secreted.
| image3 = The-arthropods-moulting-3.gif
| alt3 = The lower regions of the old cuticle are then digested by the enzymes and subsequently absorbed. The process of moulting can start.
}}