Palpal chelae
- Pronunciation
- /PAL-pal KEE-lee/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Palpal chela
- Plural
- Palpal chelae
Definition
Pincer-like appendages found at the ends of the pedipalps in some arachnids, used for grasping, manipulating food, or defense.
Etymology
From Latin 'palpus', meaning 'feeler' or 'palp', and 'chela', meaning 'claw'.
Example
The scorpion uses its palpal chelae to grasp and immobilize its prey.
Synonyms
- Pedipalp pincers
- Palp claws
Related Terms
- Pedipalps
- Chelicerae
- Arachnida
Usage Notes
Palpal chelae are particularly prominent in scorpions but can also be found in some other arachnids like pseudoscorpions.