noun
- A plate or flap-like structure located above the mouth in certain crustaceans and other arthropods.
Usage: zoology; technical
Examples
- The epistome of the crustacean extends over the mouth region.
- In many decapods, the epistome is a prominent anatomical feature.
- Zoologists examine the epistome to classify arthropod species.
- The epistome serves as a protective structure in certain marine organisms.