Mechanosensilla

Definition

Sensory organs found on the exoskeleton of insects, specialized to detect mechanical stimuli such as touch, pressure, and vibration.

Etymology

From Greek 'mechanismos', meaning 'mechanism', and Latin 'sensillum', meaning 'a small sensory organ'.

Example

Mechanosensilla on the antennae of a fly allow it to detect landing sites and other nearby objects.

Related Terms

• Touch
• Pressure
• Vibration
• Sensory

Usage Notes

Mechanosensilla are often found in clusters and vary in shape and size depending on their function.