Pedipalps
Pedipalps (pronunciation: pe-di-palps) are the second pair of appendages of the Chelicerates, a group of Arthropods that includes Spiders, Scorpions, Horseshoe Crabs, and their relatives.
Etymology
The term Pedipalps is derived from the Latin pes (foot) and palpus (to feel), indicating their function as sensory organs.
Description
Pedipalps are typically composed of six segments: the coxa, trochanter, femur, patella, tibia, and tarsus. The exact structure and function of the pedipalps can vary widely among different groups of chelicerates. In spiders, for example, the pedipalps are often modified into complex structures used in mating. In scorpions, the pedipalps are large and powerful, used for capturing and crushing prey.
Related Terms
- Chelicerae: The first pair of appendages in chelicerates, often modified into fangs or pincers.
- Arachnids: A class of arthropods that includes spiders, scorpions, and their relatives.
- Exoskeleton: The hard outer covering of arthropods, to which the pedipalps are attached.
See Also
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.