Respiratory siphon
- Pronunciation
- /res-pir-uh-tor-ee sigh-fuhn/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Respiratory siphon
- Plural
- Respiratory siphons
Definition
A respiratory organ found in some aquatic larval insects, allowing them to breathe air while submerged.
Etymology
From Latin 'respirare', meaning 'to breathe', and 'siphon', referring to a tube used for conveying liquid.
Example
The respiratory siphon of the aquatic larva of certain mosquitoes allows them to breathe atmospheric oxygen while remaining underwater.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Respiratory siphons are often found in conjunction with other respiratory adaptations, such as plastrons.