CRIBBELLUM Meaning and
Definition
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Cribbellum refers to a complex structure found in certain arachnids, particularly spiders, that aids in the process of prey capture. It is a specialized formation located within or near the spinnerets, which are the appendages responsible for producing silk in spiders. The cribbellum is responsible for creating a unique type of silk called cribellar silk, which is used in combination with other types of silk to construct the spider's web.
The structure of the cribbellum includes numerous tiny spigots, also known as cribellar spigots, which each produce a single strand of cribellar silk. These spigots are arranged in a concentric pattern, forming a cribellum sieve. The cribellar silk contains minute, comb-like structures called cribelli, which increase the silk's ability to capture tiny prey.
When capturing prey, spiders deploy cribellar silk by dragging or flicking it onto the target. The cribelli and the unique properties of cribellar silk allow it to entangle small airborne insects, such as gnats and midges, by mechanically trapping them rather than relying solely on adhesive properties like other types of silk.
The unique structure and function of the cribbellum contribute to the high efficiency of spider webs in capturing prey, particularly small flying insects. While not all spiders possess a cribbellum, it is well-developed in certain families, highlighting the diversity and adaptability of arachnids in their respective hunting strategies.
Common Misspellings for CRIBBELLUM
- xribbellum
- vribbellum
- fribbellum
- dribbellum
- ceibbellum
- cdibbellum
- cfibbellum
- ctibbellum
- c5ibbellum
- c4ibbellum
- crubbellum
- crjbbellum
- crkbbellum
- crobbellum
- cr9bbellum
- cr8bbellum
- crivbellum
- crinbellum
- crihbellum
- crigbellum
