METASTERNUM Meaning and
Definition
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Metasternum refers to a specific anatomical structure found in certain arthropods, particularly insects. It is the ventral (underside) plate or segment of the thorax, specifically located between the middle and hind legs. The term "metasternum" is derived from Greek, with "meta" meaning "after" or "next to" and "sternon" referring to the breastbone or chest.
In insects, the metasternum serves as an important attachment point for various muscles involved in leg movement and locomotion. It provides support and stability to the insect's body during walking, jumping, or flying. Additionally, the metasternum often exhibits diverse morphological characteristics across different species, aiding in species identification and classification.
The structure of the metasternum can vary from being simple and flat to more complex with various prominences and ridges. These morphological changes often correlate with the specific locomotive behaviors and needs of different insect species. The size and shape of the metasternum can also play a role in determining an insect's overall fitness and adaptability to its environment.
Overall, the metasternum represents an integral part of an insect's thoracic structure, contributing to its locomotor capabilities and physical characteristics. Its specific shape and features can vary significantly among different species, ultimately playing a crucial role in insect biology and taxonomy.
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The xiphoid or ensiform process of the sternum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METASTERNUM
- netasternum
- ketasternum
- jetasternum
- mwtasternum
- mstasternum
- mdtasternum
- mrtasternum
- m4tasternum
- m3tasternum
- merasternum
- mefasternum
- megasternum
- meyasternum
- me6asternum
- me5asternum
- metzsternum
- metssternum
- metwsternum
- metqsternum
- metaaternum
Etymology of METASTERNUM
The word "Metasternum" is derived from two distinct root words:
1. "Meta-" is a prefix of Greek origin, meaning "beyond" or "transitional". It is commonly used in scientific and medical terms to indicate a change in position or form from a previous state.
2. "sternum" is a Latin word, referring to the breastbone or the ventral plate of the middle segment of the thorax in insects. The word "sternum" comes from the ancient Greek word "sternon" meaning "chest" or "breastbone".
Therefore, "Metasternum" combines the Greek prefix "meta-" meaning "beyond" with the Latin word "sternum" meaning "breastbone", to describe a transitional or intermediate structure located beyond the sternum, specifically in insects.
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