Spiracular gill
- Pronunciation
- /SPAIR-ih-kul-er GILL/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Spiracular gill
- Plural
- Spiracular gills
Definition
An external respiratory organ found in some aquatic insects, consisting of a modified spiracle that allows for gas exchange underwater.
Etymology
From Latin 'spiraculum', meaning 'a breathing hole', and 'gill', referring to a respiratory organ.
Example
The larvae of certain aquatic insects, such as some dragonflies and stoneflies, possess spiracular gills that allow them to breathe underwater.
Related Terms
- Spiracles
- Aquatic larvae
- Respiration