petiolus
- Pronunciation
- /PEH-tee-oh-lus/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- petiolus
- Plural
- petioli
Definition
The slender, stalk-like structure that connects the thorax and abdomen in certain insects, particularly in the suborder Apocrita of the order Hymenoptera (which includes ants, wasps, and bees).
Etymology
From Latin 'petiolus', meaning 'little foot' or 'small stalk'.
Example
The petiolus is a defining characteristic that helps differentiate certain Hymenoptera from other insects.
Synonyms
- Petiole
- Waist
Related Terms
- Hymenoptera
- Thorax
- Abdomen
- Gaster
Usage Notes
The petiolus is typically more pronounced in ants and certain types of wasps, and it can vary in length and structure among different species.