Femur

Definition

The third and typically the longest segment of the leg in insects and arachnids, located between the trochanter and the tibia.

Etymology

From Latin 'femur', meaning 'thigh'.

Example

In grasshoppers, the femur of the hind leg is greatly enlarged to facilitate jumping.

Related Terms

• Trochanter
• Tibia
• Leg segments

Usage Notes

The structure and size of the femur can vary significantly among different species and can be an important characteristic for species identification.