Antecosta

Pronunciation
/an-teh-kaw-stuh/
Category
Anatomy
Singular
Antecosta
Plural
Antecosta

Definition

A transverse ridge or carina near the anterior margin of the tergum of the thorax or abdomen in insects, marking the internal attachment of the dorsal longitudinal muscles.

Etymology

From Latin 'ante' meaning 'before' and 'costa', meaning 'rib'.

Example

The antecosta on the abdomen of a dragonfly provides a critical structure for muscle attachment during flight.

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