How many pairs of legs do arachnids possess?

Arachnids possess eight legs, which places them in a distinct category within the class of joint-legged invertebrates called arthropods. This characteristic is a defining trait of arachnids, which includes spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites. The body structure of arachnids typically consists of two main segments: the cephalothorax (combined head and thorax) and the abdomen. The eight legs are attached to the cephalothorax, clearly distinguishing them from insects, which have six legs. Understanding this fundamental aspect of arachnid anatomy is important for pest control professionals, as it assists in accurate identification and informs pest management strategies.