exoskeletal
/ˌɛksoʊˈskɛlətəl/
adjective
- Relating to or having an external skeleton that supports and protects the body, as in insects, crustaceans, and some other animals.
- Many insects have an exoskeletal structure made of chitin.
- The exoskeletal shell of a crab is hard and brittle.
- Scientists study exoskeletal fossils to learn about ancient arthropods.