Macrochaete

Definition

Large bristles or setae found on the bodies of insects, especially flies, which are involved in sensory perception and proprioception.

Etymology

From Greek 'makro-', meaning 'large', and 'chaite', meaning 'bristle' or 'hair'.

Example

The macrochaetes on the thorax of the fruit fly serve as important sensory structures.

Synonyms

• Setae
• Bristles

Related Terms

• Microchaete
• Seta
• Sensory hairs

Usage Notes

Macrochaetes are particularly prominent in Diptera (flies) and are often used as taxonomic characters to differentiate between species.