Tarsal organ

Pronunciation: /TAHR-suhl OR-guhn/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Tarsal organ

Plural: Tarsal organs

Definition

A small, sensory organ located on the tarsi (the 'feet') of some arachnids, especially spiders, which is used for detecting chemical and environmental stimuli.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'tarsus,' meaning 'ankle' or 'foot,' and 'organ,' from the Greek 'organon,' meaning 'instrument' or 'tool'.

Example

The tarsal organs of the jumping spider allow it to detect chemical cues from its environment, aiding in prey detection and navigation.

Synonyms

Chemosensory organ
Sensory gland

Related Terms

Tarsi
Sensilla
Chemoreception
Arachnids

Usage Notes

Tarsal organs are particularly well-developed in some spider species and play a critical role in environmental interaction.