Brush organ
- Pronunciation
- /bruhsh awr-guhn/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Brush organ
- Plural
- Brush organs
Definition
Clusters of long setae on the body of certain insects, particularly male Lepidoptera and some Neuroptera. They are associated with exocrine glands and used during courtship to disperse sex pheromones.
Etymology
From the resemblance to a brush.
Example
The brush organs of male butterflies release pheromones to attract females during mating.
Synonyms
- Hair pencil
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Brush organs are often found on the abdomen.