noun
- retractable, forked, scent-producing organs found behind the head of caterpillars in the swallowtail butterfly family, used for defense against predators
Usage: entomology; plural form
Examples
- When threatened, the swallowtail caterpillar extends its bright orange osmeteria.
- The osmeteria release a strong, unpleasant odor to deter predators.
- Scientists study the chemical compounds produced by caterpillar osmeteria.
- The osmeteria appear as two horn-like projections when fully extended.
- Black swallowtail larvae use their osmeteria as their primary defense mechanism.
- The osmeteria quickly retract when the threat passes.