Chelicerae

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Chelicerae (/kɪˈlɪsəriː/; singular: chelicera /kɪˈlɪsərə/) are the first pair of appendages in the subphylum Chelicerata, which includes arachnids, merostomates, and pycnogonids. The term "chelicerae" is derived from the Greek words "chele" meaning claw and "keras" meaning horn.

Structure and Function

Chelicerae are typically adapted for feeding, and their structure varies widely depending on the diet of the animal. In spiders, they are often modified into fangs for injecting venom into prey. In scorpions, they are small claw-like structures used to hold and tear apart prey. In sea spiders, they are long, slender appendages used for depositing eggs.

Types of Chelicerae

There are two main types of chelicerae: the pincer-like (orthognathous) chelicerae found in spiders and the scissor-like (labidognathous) chelicerae found in scorpions and other arachnids.

Related Terms

  • Arachnid: A member of the class Arachnida, which includes spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks.
  • Merostomata: A class of chelicerates that includes horseshoe crabs and extinct sea scorpions.
  • Pycnogonida: A class of chelicerates also known as sea spiders.

See Also

External links

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