COXOPODITES Meaning and
Definition
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Coxopodites refer to the fused segments or limbs found in certain arthropods, specifically in crustaceans belonging to the order Decapoda. These coxopodites are a particular structure associated with the abdomen, located between the thorax and the tail.
In decapod crustaceans, such as crabs and lobsters, the coxopodites are the segments between the thoracic segments, which bear the walking legs, and the telson, which forms the posterior part of the abdomen. Coxopodites are generally rigid and lack any appendages. They serve to provide structural support and are critical for locomotion and stability during movement.
The number of coxopodites can vary between different decapod species, but they typically range from three to seven segments. In lobsters, for example, there are usually six coxopodites present. The size, shape, and arrangement of these segments can also differ, depending on the species and their evolutionary adaptations.
Coxopodites are composed of exoskeletal plates and jointed articulations that allow for limited movement. The fusion of these segments strengthens the abdomen, providing protection for the internal organs. Coxopodites are important for the overall anatomy and biomechanics of decapods, facilitating their diverse behaviors, such as walking, swimming, and burrowing.
Common Misspellings for COXOPODITES
- coxopodite
- coxopoditres
- cokopodites
- coxopoditess
- coxopotites
- cokopotites
- coxopodiets
- coxopoditese
- coxopoditesa
- coxapodites
Etymology of COXOPODITES
The word "coxopodites" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "coxa" meaning "hip" or "thigh" and "podite" meaning "foot" or "leg". In scientific terminology, "coxopodites" refers to the leg or appendage attached to the coxa or hip. This term is commonly used in studies of arthropods and crustaceans to describe certain leg segments or jointed limbs.
