Pilifer
- Pronunciation
- /PIH-lif-er/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Pilifer
- Plural
- Pilifera
Definition
A small, hair-like or bristle-like structure found on certain insect anatomy, particularly on the labium in some Lepidoptera.
Etymology
From Latin 'pilus', meaning 'hair', and '-fer', meaning 'bearing'.
Example
The pilifer of the moth is an essential structure aiding in the sensory function of the insect.
Related Terms
- Hair
- Bristles
- Labium
Usage Notes
The term pilifer typically refers to specific structures in Lepidoptera, rather than describing entire insects.