Final answer:
The most diverse clade of Hexapoda is the insects. They are part of the phylum Arthropoda, which falls under the superphylum Ecdysozoa and is known for its molting process culminating in ecdysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Most Diverse Clade of Hexapoda
The most diverse clade of Hexapoda is the insects, which represent the largest class of arthropods in terms of species diversity and biomass, particularly in terrestrial habitats. Phylum Arthropoda, of which the subphylum Hexapoda is a part, includes various subphyla that have successfully colonized terrestrial, aquatic, and aerial habitats. Among these, Hexapoda stands out for its incredible species diversity, with insects being the predominant members. It is estimated that there may be more than 10 million insect species across the world, most of which have yet to be identified.
Arthropods are part of the superphylum Ecdysozoa, known for the molting process they undergo, which involves the shedding of their exoskeleton in a process called ecdysis. This feature is shared across the diverse and ecologically widespread groups within the superphylum, including the arthropods, nematodes, and tardigrades.