Chelicerata
Proper noun A major subphylum of arthropods. Chelicerata is characterized by having a body divided into two main tagmata (sections): a prosoma (cephalothorax) and an opisthosoma (abdomen). Its members lack antennae and possess chelicerae, which are specialized appendages near the mouth used for feeding, often as fangs or pincers.
The term "Chelicerata" is used scientifically to classify and discuss this specific group of arthropods. It is always capitalized as it is a proper taxonomic name.
Examples * The subphylum Chelicerata includes arachnids like spiders and scorpions. * Chelicerata is distinguished from other arthropods by the presence of chelicerae. * Horseshoe crabs are marine members of Chelicerata.
- Phylogenetic Context: In evolutionary biology, "Chelicerata" is used to discuss the lineage and relationships between arachnids, sea spiders, and horseshoe crabs.
- Molecular data supports the monophyly of Chelicerata.
- Chelicerate (noun): Any individual organism belonging to the subphylum Chelicerata.
- Spiders are chelicerates.
- Chelicerate (adjective): Of or pertaining to the Chelicerata.
- The chelicerate body plan is ancient.
- Chelicerates (when used as a common noun to refer to the group collectively).
This term has a single, specific zoological meaning. It does not have common idiomatic or figurative uses.
- spiders; scorpions; horseshoe crabs