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Raptorial

Raptorial is a phrase used to describe the grasping fore legs of some insects and other invertebrates. The grasping surfaces of the limb are usually found on different, and opposing, segments of the limb. The fore legs of the praying mantis are possibly the best example of raptorial limbs.

A photograph of the Praying mantis _Empusa egena_ (previously _Empusa pennata_)

A photograph of the Praying mantis Empusa egena (previously Empusa pennata).
Photograph by Luis Nunes Alberto, used under GFDL

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