Proboscis
Proboscis
Proboscis (/prəˈbɒsɪs/; from the Greek word προβοσκίς, proboskis) is an elongated appendage from the head of an animal, either a vertebrate or an invertebrate. In invertebrates, the term usually refers to tubular mouthparts used for feeding and sucking.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek word προβοσκίς (proboskis), which means "feeding tube". It is a combination of the words pro meaning "before" and boskein meaning "to feed".
In Vertebrates
In vertebrates, a proboscis is an elongated nose or snout. The most notable example of a vertebrate with a proboscis is the Elephant, which uses its long, flexible trunk for a variety of purposes, including feeding, drinking, and social interactions.
In Invertebrates
In invertebrates, a proboscis is often a long, tubular feeding and sucking organ. It is present in various invertebrate groups, including Nematodes, Gastropods, and Cephalopods. In these animals, the proboscis is used to suck up food, often in liquid form.
Related Terms
- Rostrum: A beak or snout-like structure in certain animals.
- Trunk: In the context of animals, a trunk refers to an elephant's long, flexible nose.
- Beak: The hard, pointed structure in birds, turtles, and some mammals, used for eating and for preening, manipulating objects, killing prey, fighting, probing for food, courtship, and feeding young.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Proboscis
- Wikipedia's article - Proboscis
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