PME

Pronunciation
/poh-STEER-ee-er MEE-dee-uhn eye/
Category
Anatomy
Singular
Posterior Median Eye
Plural
Posterior Median Eyes

Definition

One of the four pairs of eyes found in many spider species, located in the posterior (rear) and median (middle) position on the cephalothorax.

Etymology

From Latin 'posterior', meaning 'coming after', and 'medianus', meaning 'of the middle', combined with 'eye'.

Example

The jumping spider's posterior median eyes contribute to its excellent depth perception and visual acuity.

Synonyms

  • Rear middle eyes

Related Terms

  • Anterior Median Eyes
  • Anterior Lateral Eyes
  • Posterior Lateral Eyes
  • Ocelli

Usage Notes

The size, position, and arrangement of PME can vary among spider species and are often used as identifying characteristics in taxonomy.