Accessory pulsatile organs
- Pronunciation
- /ak-SES-er-ee pul-SAH-til or-ganz/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Accessory pulsatile organ
- Plural
- Accessory pulsatile organs
Definition
Specialized pumping devices found in some insects, located at the bases of the antennae, legs, or wings. They help circulate hemolymph throughout the insect's body.
Etymology
From Latin 'accessorius', meaning 'accessory', and 'pulsatilis', meaning 'pulsating'.
Example
The leg hearts of some dragonflies help pump hemolymph to their legs.
Related Terms
- Hemolymph
- Circulatory system
- Pterygote insects
Usage Notes
Accessory pulsatile organs are found in various insect orders, including Odonata, Hemiptera, and Diptera.