chitin-based embryonic cuticle biosynthetic process embryonic cuticle formation Synthesis, including the chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of chitin and other components, and deposition of a chitin-based embryonic cuticle by the underlying epidermal epithelium. This tough, waterproof cuticle layer is essential to provide structural integrity of the larval body. An example of this is found in Drosophila melanogaster. embryonic cuticle biosynthetic process embryonic cuticle synthesis biological_process embryonic cuticle anabolism GO:0008362 chitin-based cuticle development