Antennae of Hexapods

Definition

The paired segmented sensory organs, borne one on each side of the head. The antennae commonly protrude forward. Each antenna consists of three main parts: the basal scape, the pedicel, and the flagellum, which can be further segmented.

Etymology

From Greek 'hex' meaning 'six' and 'pod' meaning 'foot'.

Example

The antennae of a housefly are used to detect odors and taste.

Related Terms

• Sensory organs
• Segmentation
• Scape
• Pedicel
• Flagellum