mesothorax
- Pronunciation
- /mee-soh-THOR-aks/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- mesothorax
- Plural
- mesothoraces
Definition
The middle of the three segments in the thorax of insects, which typically bears the second pair of legs and the first pair of wings.
Etymology
From Greek 'mesos', meaning 'middle', and 'thorax', meaning 'chest' or 'breastplate'.
Example
The mesothorax of a bee supports its forewings and the second pair of legs.
Synonyms
- Middle thoracic segment
Related Terms
- Prothorax
- Metathorax
- Thorax
- Legs
- Wings
Usage Notes
The mesothorax is an essential segment for locomotion in many insects, providing attachment points for both legs and wings.