Cerci

Cerci (singular Cercus) are paired appendages on the abdomen of many species of insect. Cerci perform a sensory function. The size of cerci varies between species with some having barely discernible cerci while others, like earwigs, having stout and obvious cerci (sometimes called pincers).

The cerci are clearly visible at the end of this earwig's abdomen.

Related terms

• Abdomen
• Chelae
• Dermaptera
• Diplura
• Epiproct
• Pedipalps

Related groups of terms

• Invertebrate body structure

Related pages on this web site

• Earwigs - Order Dermaptera
• Insect body structure

See other words beginning with C