Fatty acids, Phospholipids and Sterols are components of cell wall as having other specific functions.

Insects are able to synthesize many fatty acids and Phospholipids so they are not usually essential dietary constituents, but many insect do require a dietary source of polyunsaturated fatty acids and all insects require sterols.

Fatty acids :-It form an homologous series with the general formula CnH2n+1COOH.

 In the insects, they are present mainly as diacylglycerides and triacylglycerides. Many different fatty acids contribute to these compounds. Derivatives of polyunsaturated fatty acids known as eicosanoids, stimulate oviposition in Crickets and may be important in the reproduction of all insects. They may also be important in thermoregulation and in lipid mobilization. Sterols:-Insects are able to synthesize sterols. As a consequence, they usually require a sterol in the diet, although some may obtain their sterols from symbiotic microorganism.

 In most of the species, Cholesterol is a necessary precursor in the synthesis of ecdysone. Insects feeding on animal tissues obtain cholesterol directly from their food and unable to utilize plant sterols. The molting hormone, ecdysone is a sterol and sterols are also essential components of cell membranes. Generally all insects need dietary source of sterol for growth and in reproduction. The linolenate is essential for development of wings and larval development. e.g. Heliothis zea.

 Arachidenic acid :-It is essential for flight and survival of newly emerged adults of Culex sp.. Oleic acid :-It helps to improve the growth of Bombex mori. The wheat germ oil contains unsaturated fatty acids needed for normal development. E.g. Ephestia kuhniella. The palmatic and oleic acid helps in the rapid development and best survival of Oryzophilus larvae. In this way the lipids plays very important role in insect nutrition.