antenna, antennae, antennomere

Classification

Kingdom Animalia (Animals)

Phylum Arthropoda (Arthropods)

No Taxon (Glossary)

No Taxon (A)

No Taxon antenna, antennae, antennomere

Explanation of Names

From Latin antenna, meaning a sail-yard (rope for hauling up or securing sails). Latin word is from Greek ana, up, plus teinein, to stretch (1).

Identification

antenna, noun, plural antennae or antennas, adjective antennal - One of the paired, flexible, segmented sensory appendages on the head of an insect, myriapod, or crustacean functioning primarily as an organ of touch. The segments of the antenna are called antennomeres.

Insect antennae have a variety of morphologies, frequently useful in identifying insect families. Specialized terminology is shown in the diagram above.

Examples of some uncommon antennae:

Remarks

Examples of antenna cleaners on legs:

Print References

Gordh, A Dictionary of Entomology, p. 56 (1)

Internet References

Wikipedia: Antenna (biology)

Works Cited

1.	A Dictionary of Entomology George Gordh, David H. Headrick. 2003. CABI Publishing.

Contributed by Cotinis on 15 May, 2007 - 8:23pm
Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset, Tony-2
Last updated 27 November, 2020 - 6:21pm

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