Antenna

Definition

A pair of long, thin sensory appendages located on the heads of insects and some arachnids, used primarily for sensing the environment.

Etymology

From Latin 'antenna', meaning 'sailyard' or 'yardarm', which refers to the ship's spar; the term was later adapted in biological contexts.

Example

The butterfly uses its antennae to detect floral scents and navigate towards nectar sources.

Synonyms

• Feelers
• Sensory appendages

Related Terms

• Sensilla
• Olfaction
• Mechanoreception
• Palps

Usage Notes

Antennae are highly specialized and can vary greatly in form and function between different species of insects and arachnids.