noun
- a segmented sensory appendage found near the mouth of arthropods, used for touching and tasting
Usage: biology; zoology
Examples
- The spider used its palpus to examine the prey before feeding.
- Each palpus contains sensory receptors that help the insect identify food.
- The maxillary palpus is located near the insect’s jaw.
- Scientists studied the structure of the beetle’s palpus under a microscope.
- The palpus helps arthropods navigate their environment through touch.
- Male spiders often have enlarged palpi used during mating.