Accessory Pulsatile Organs
- Pronunciation
- /ak-SEH-suh-ree PUHL-seh-tyl OR-guhns/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Accessory Pulsatile Organ (APO)
- Plural
- Accessory Pulsatile Organs (APOs)
Definition
Secondary pumping organs found in insects, aiding in the circulation of hemolymph to appendages such as wings and antennae.
Etymology
From Latin 'accessorius' meaning 'additional', and 'pulsare' meaning 'to beat or throb'.
Example
APOs in the legs of grasshoppers help ensure that hemolymph reaches the extremities efficiently.
Synonyms
- Secondary hearts
- Auxiliary pulsatile organs
Related Terms
- Hemolymph
- Circulatory system
- Insect physiology
Usage Notes
APOs are vital for the circulation of hemolymph in larger insects, especially in structures far from the main dorsal heart.