Siphon

Definition

A tube or channel used by some aquatic arthropods and mollusks to draw in or expel water. It is not typically used to describe how insects such as mosquitoes feed.

Etymology

From Latin 'siphon', meaning 'a pipe'.

Example

Aquatic larvae of some insects have siphons to breathe air from the surface.

Related Terms

• Mouthparts
• Feeding
• Respiration

Usage Notes

In entomology, siphons are more related to breathing in aquatic environments than feeding.