[Historiopode]

I would be curious about the details of such "unpacking". The apparent volume ratio of the born insect over its egg's is quite stunning.

[bh42222]

I think the way it works for most most (maybe even all) insects is to use air to blow themselves up much like a balloon to get out of the egg or cocoon.

[michaelcampbell]

where does this air come from; is the cocoon/egg not airtight?

[bh42222]

While an egg or cocoon might be airtight, it must also still remain air permeable. Everything must be able to breathe. So while there might not be a visible flow of air, like through an open window, oxygen and CO2 still make their way in and out all the time.

Also initially the insect might break the egg/cocoon open without extra air, just by simple mechanics, but once it's out it starts to pump air into itself.

[viaken]

Possibly, but it popped the top open. Maybe it's possible to do that by just flexing some muscles.

[sectek]

My first question is how "deep" the egg goes down into the sand. It could be a long tube protruding down into the sand.

[hexagonc]

I wondered the same thing but according to the article, the eggs are pea-sized which suggests they are not elongated.