The body of arthropods is covered by a hard ……………….

Step 1:
Arthropods (arthro -jointed poda- legs) :

1. Arthropod is a phylum of the kingdom Animalia. It includes invertebrates that have jointed legs.
2. The hard outer coverings of arthropods is a cuticle that acts as an exoskeleton.
3. This exoskeleton protects from adverse environmental conditions and enemies.
4. Examples: spiders, wasps, cockroaches, etc.

Final Answer: The body of arthropods is covered by a hard outer covering called an exoskeleton.