Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
chelicera
Noun
/kəˈlɪsərə/
Definition
A chelicera is a pair of mouthparts found in certain arthropods, including arachnids, which are used for grasping and tearing food.
Examples
- The spider’s chelicerae quickly grasped the helpless insect.
- In horseshoe crabs, chelicerae assist in manipulating small prey.
- Some scorpions have venomous chelicerae for hunting.
Meaning
Chelicerae serve as the primary appendages for feeding and can vary in structure and function among different species.
Synonyms
- Mandibles
- Mouthparts
