Pronotal comb
- Pronunciation
- /PROH-no-tal comb/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Pronotal comb
- Plural
- Pronotal combs
Definition
A structure found on the pronotum of some insects, notably parasitic wasps, composed of spines or projections used for various purposes such as grasping and manipulating prey.
Etymology
From Latin 'pronotum', referring to the thoracic segment behind the head, and 'comb', referring to the arrangement of spines or projections.
Example
The pronotal comb of a parasitic wasp helps it to manipulate its host efficiently.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Pronotal combs vary significantly between species and are often used to identify different types of parasitic wasps.