Embolus
- Pronunciation
- /EM-buh-luhs/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Embolus
- Plural
- Emboli
Definition
A structure on the pedipalp of male spiders that is used to transfer sperm to the female during copulation.
Etymology
From Latin 'embolus', meaning 'wedge-shaped object' or 'plug'.
Example
The male tarantula uses its embolus to insert sperm into the female's epigyne.
Synonyms
- Palpal bulb
- Sperm transfer organ
Related Terms
- Pedipalp
- Epigyne
- Copulation
- Spermatheca
Usage Notes
The structure and complexity of the embolus can vary significantly among different spider species.