Recurrent vein
- Pronunciation
- /re-KUR-rent VAYN/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Recurrent vein
- Plural
- Recurrent veins
Definition
A vein that runs back towards the base of a wing, often found in insects with complex venation patterns.
Etymology
From Latin 'recurrens', meaning 'returning'.
Example
In some hymenopteran insects, the recurrent vein is clearly visible and helps in the identification of species.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Recurrent veins are often found in complex wing venation patterns and can be important for understanding the structural integrity of the wing.