Epigyne

Definition

The external genital structure of female spiders, used for mating and often important for species identification.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-', meaning 'upon', and 'gynē', meaning 'woman'.

Example

Researchers used the shape and structure of the epigyne to differentiate between two closely related spider species.

Synonyms

• Epigynum

Related Terms

• Genitalia
• Pedipalp
• Spermatheca
• Mating

Usage Notes

The epigyne can be an important morphological feature in taxonomic studies to differentiate between species.