Feelers

Definition

Slender, sensory appendages found on the heads of various arthropods, such as insects and arachnids, used for detecting tactile, chemical, and environmental stimuli.

Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'fēol', meaning 'to touch or handle'.

Example

The ant uses its feelers to navigate and communicate with other members of its colony.

Synonyms

• Antennae
• Sensory appendages

Related Terms

• Antenna
• Sensilla
• Tactile hairs
• Chemoreceptors

Usage Notes

Feelers are crucial for the survival of many arthropods, providing vital sensory input about their surroundings and enabling behaviors such as foraging, mating, and predator avoidance.