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apodeme

apodeme

9.9
An internal ridge inside insects and similar animals that holds organs and lets muscles attach
  • noun
  • /ˈæpəˌdim/
  • Specialized
translation icon : apodema
  • Muscle fibers attach to the apodeme, enabling the arthropod to move its limbs efficiently.

Examples

  • The apodeme in certain beetles is exceptionally large, providing greater leverage for the jaw muscles.

  • Many arthropods have multiple apodemes for muscle attachment.

  • Researchers examined the strength of the apodeme to understand how it supports the insect’s internal organs.

  • The apodeme provides a crucial support for the insect's muscles.

  • Muscle fibers attach to the apodeme, enabling the arthropod to move its limbs efficiently.

  • Researchers examined the strength of the apodeme to understand how it supports the insect’s internal organs.

  • The apodeme in certain beetles is exceptionally large, providing greater leverage for the jaw muscles.

How Prominent

keel
  • Specialized
1 8.0
apodeme
  • Specialized
9.9
process
  • Specialized
19 9.0
to ridge
4 6.0
bump
118 2.5

Surface Forms

apodeme singular
apodemes plural

Etymology

The word apodeme can be remembered from its Greek parts apo- 'away' and -deme 'body' (a helpful way to think of this). So imagine a ridge that projects 'away' from the inner wall of an insect to give muscles a place to attach, which is exactly what an apodeme does.