gnathocoxa
- Pronunciation
- /nath-oh-KOK-suh/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- gnathocoxa
- Plural
- gnathocoxae
Definition
The basal segment of an arachnid mouthpart, particularly in the maxillipeds or pedipalps, which aids in food manipulation.
Etymology
From Greek 'gnathos', meaning 'jaw', and 'coxa', meaning 'hip' or 'joint'.
Example
The scorpion uses its gnathocoxae to help manipulate its prey during feeding.
Synonyms
- Basal segment
- Proximal segment
Related Terms
- Maxillipeds
- Pedipalps
- Chelicerae
- Mandibles
Usage Notes
Gnathocoxae are specifically adapted to assist in the manipulation and processing of food items.