acrostichal bristles

Definition

Small, hair-like structures located on the thorax of certain insects, particularly flies, arranged in rows along the midline.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'akros', meaning 'topmost' and 'stichos', meaning 'row'.

Example

Acrostichal bristles are prominent on the dorsal surface of a housefly's thorax, aiding in species identification.

Synonyms

• Thoracic bristles

Related Terms

• Thorax
• Bristles
• Setae
• Insect anatomy

Usage Notes

Acrostichal bristles are essential for taxonomic studies as their presence, absence, or specific arrangement can help differentiate between closely related species.