METAPLEURON Meaning and
Definition
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The metapleuron is a term used in entomology, specifically in the study of insect anatomy, to refer to a particular anatomical region found on the side of the thorax of certain insects. It is located between the mesopleuron, which is the anterior region of the thorax, and the metathorax, which is the posterior region of the thorax.
The metapleuron is typically triangular or trapezoidal in shape and is covered by a layer of cuticle, forming part of the exoskeleton of the insect. This cuticle may exhibit various structures, such as ridges, setae (hairs), or sensory organs, depending on the species.
The metapleuron serves several important functions for the insect. Firstly, it provides protection for the underlying anatomy, including vital organs such as the flight muscles. Secondly, it acts as a support structure, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the thorax. Additionally, the metapleuron may have a role in locomotion, as it provides attachment sites for certain muscles involved in insect movement.
The morphology of the metapleuron can be a useful characteristic for taxonomic identification, as it often exhibits species-specific features. Researchers and entomologists carefully examine the shape, size, and other characteristics of the metapleuron to help distinguish different insect species or groups. Overall, the metapleuron plays a significant role in insect anatomy, providing protection, support, and potentially contributing to the functional and taxonomic diversity of insects.
Common Misspellings for METAPLEURON
- netapleuron
- ketapleuron
- jetapleuron
- mwtapleuron
- mstapleuron
- mdtapleuron
- mrtapleuron
- m4tapleuron
- m3tapleuron
- merapleuron
- mefapleuron
- megapleuron
- meyapleuron
- me6apleuron
- me5apleuron
- metzpleuron
- metspleuron
- metwpleuron
- metqpleuron
- metaoleuron
Etymology of METAPLEURON
The word "metapleuron" is derived from two Greek words: "meta" meaning "beyond" or "after" and "pleura" meaning "side" or "flank". In biology, the term "pleuron" refers to the lateral or side plate of an insect's body. Therefore, "metapleuron" specifically refers to the third plate or side area, which is located beyond or after the second one. This term is commonly used in entomology and insect anatomy to describe the structure of the insect's body.
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