Genital opening
- Pronunciation
- /jen-i-tl OH-puh-ning/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Genital opening
- Plural
- Genital openings
Definition
The external opening of the reproductive system in insects and arachnids, through which copulation and egg-laying occur.
Etymology
From Latin 'genitalis,' meaning 'pertaining to generation or birth,' and 'opening,' from Old English 'openung,' meaning 'an opening.'
Example
During mating, the male insect transfers sperm into the female's genital opening.
Synonyms
- Genital orifice
- Reproductive opening
Related Terms
- Copulation
- Egg-laying
- Reproductive system
- Insect anatomy
- Arachnid anatomy
Usage Notes
The location and structure of the genital opening can vary significantly between different species of insects and arachnids.