What are the openings in an insect's body called that connect to the outside for breathing?

The correct term for the openings in an insect's body that connect to the outside for breathing is "spiracles." These small openings, located along the sides of an insect's abdomen and thorax, allow air to enter the respiratory system. Insects use spiracles to regulate airflow and exchange gases, facilitating the uptake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide.

Spiracles lead into a network of internal tubes called tracheae, which transport air directly to the tissues of the insect. This system is highly efficient and enables insects to thrive in various environments. The presence of spiracles is a distinctive feature of the insect respiratory system, setting it apart from other types of organisms which may use lungs or gills for respiration.

Understanding spiracles is crucial for recognizing how insects adapt to their environments and manage their respiratory processes. This is particularly important in the study of entomology and the biology of terrestrial arthropods.