Johnston's organ

Pronunciation
/JON-stuhns or-guhn/
Category
Anatomy
Singular
Johnston's organ
Plural
Johnston's organs

Definition

A sensory organ located in the second segment of the antennae of insects, which detects motion and vibrations in the surrounding air.

Etymology

Named after the American physician Christopher Johnston, who discovered it in 1855.

Example

The mosquito's Johnston's organ helps it detect the direction of sounds made by potential hosts.

Synonyms

  • Antennal organ

Related Terms

  • Antennae
  • Mechanoreception
  • Insect sensory systems

Usage Notes

Johnston's organ is particularly well-developed in insects that rely on sound and air movement for navigation and locating mates or prey.