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bristletail
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bristletail

arthropod order
Also known as: Archaeognatha, Microcoryphia, microcoryphian
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Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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History

bristletail, (order Archaeognatha), any of approximately 350 species of primitive wingless insects that measure from 5 to 20 mm (0.2 to 0.8 inch) in length when they are fully grown and have three slender bristlelike appendages at the tip of the abdomen. Bristletails have small compound eyes and external mouthparts. Some species have scales covering the body. Young bristletails resemble adults except in size. Sexual maturity is attained in two to three years, and the...

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