Palp
- Pronunciation
- /palp/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Palp
- Plural
- Palps
Definition
Appendages attached to the mouthparts of arthropods, particularly insects and arachnids, used for sensing and manipulating food.
Etymology
From Latin 'palpus', meaning 'feeler' or 'touch'.
Example
The spider uses its palps to taste and manipulate its prey.
Synonyms
Related Terms
- Mandible
- Maxilla
- Chelicerae
- Antennae
Usage Notes
Palps can vary greatly in form and function among different arthropod species. In spiders, they are also involved in reproduction, especially in males.