Ecdysial line
- Pronunciation
- /ek-diz-ee-al line/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Ecdysial line
- Plural
- Ecdysial lines
Definition
The preformed line along which the old cuticle splits during molting in arthropods.
Etymology
From Greek 'ecdysein' meaning 'to shed' and 'line' referring to a row or line of cells.
Example
During molting, the ecdysial line serves as the predetermined path for the old exoskeleton to split and shed.
Related Terms
- Ecdysone
- Prothoracicotropic hormone
- Molting