Tarsus
- Pronunciation
- /TAR-sus/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Tarsus
- Plural
- Tarsi
Definition
The distal segment of the leg of an insect or arachnid, composed of multiple small segments or tarsomeres.
Etymology
From Latin 'tarsus', meaning 'ankle', which is derived from Greek 'tarsos', meaning 'flat surface' or 'sole of the foot'.
Example
The beetle's tarsus is adapted for grasping and holding onto surfaces.
Synonyms
- Foot
Related Terms
Usage Notes
The number of tarsomeres can vary between species, and the structure is crucial for understanding insect and arachnid locomotion.