Stomodaeum

Pronunciation: /sto-mo-DEE-um/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Stomodaeum

Plural: Stomodaea

Definition

The anterior part of the alimentary canal in arthropods, including insects and arachnids, which is responsible for the initial intake of food.

Etymology

From Greek 'stoma' meaning 'mouth' and 'hodaion' meaning 'road' or 'way'.

Example

The stomodaeum in grasshoppers is responsible for the initial breakdown of food after ingestion.

Synonyms

Foregut

Related Terms

Mesenteron
Proctodaeum
Alimentary canal
Digestive system

Usage Notes

The stomodaeum is one of three main parts of the arthropod digestive system, typically followed by the mesenteron (midgut) and the proctodaeum (hindgut).