Gonopod
- Pronunciation
- /goh-NOH-pod/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Gonopod
- Plural
- Gonopods
Definition
The paired appendages of some male arthropods, especially millipedes, used for transferring sperm to the female during mating.
Etymology
From Greek 'gonos' meaning 'reproduction' and 'podos' meaning 'foot'.
Example
The gonopods of male millipedes are often specialized for mating.
Related Terms
- Intromittent organ
- Male genitalia
Usage Notes
Gonopods can be simple or highly modified, depending on the species.