epigastric fold
- Pronunciation
- /ep-ih-GAS-trik fohld/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- epigastric fold
- Plural
- epigastric folds
Definition
A ridge or fold in the cuticle of some arachnids, situated in the epigastric region (near the midpoint of the abdomen) and involved in reproductive anatomy.
Etymology
From 'epi-', meaning 'upon', 'gastric', referring to the stomach or belly, and 'fold', indicating a ridge or crease.
Example
During the examination of the spider, the epigastric fold was clearly visible and helped in identifying the species.
Related Terms
- Epigyne
- Epigastrium
- Arachnid anatomy
Usage Notes
The epigastric fold is an important morphological feature in certain arachnid studies, particularly for species identification and understanding reproductive anatomy.