Patagium
- Pronunciation
- /pa-TAY-jee-um/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Patagium
- Plural
- Patagia
Definition
The membrane that stretches between the body and the wing in some flying animals. It is more accurately associated with bats and pterosaurs rather than insects.
Etymology
From Latin 'patagium', meaning 'wing' or 'gold edging on a garment'.
Example
In bats, the patagium extends between the fingers and the body to form a flight surface.
Related Terms
- Wing Membrane
- Flight
- Bats
Usage Notes
In the context of insects, 'patagium' might be incorrectly used; instead, 'wing membrane' is more accurate.