chela

In zoology, a chela (plural: chelae) refers to a pincerlike organ or claw found on the limb of a crustacean or arachnid. This term originates from the Greek word chelē, meaning claw.1

These specialized appendages are common in crustaceans and can vary in number and prominence. For instance, crabs typically have one obvious pair of chelae, while some prawns may have up to three pairs. In some crustaceans, like those in the genus Squilla, a modified grasping organ called a subchela exists, where the terminal segment folds back against the preceding one. The development and arrangement of these appendages are key characteristics used to define different crustacean groups.23