labium
Quick Summary
The term "labium" has multiple biological meanings. In insects, it refers to the lower mouthpart formed by the second pair of maxillae, which can include a movable distal part called the prelabium. In human anatomy, "labia" is the plural of labium and refers to folds of skin in the female external genitalia, the vulva. The labia majora are the outer folds, homologous to the male scrotum, providing protection and lubrication. The labia minora are thinner inner folds that surround the vaginal and urethral openings, also offering protection and contributing to sexual sensation. Additionally, "labium" can describe the lower lip of a flower's corolla.12345
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insectHead…form the lower lip, or labium. Sometimes a median tonguelike structure, called the hypopharynx, arises from the floor of the mouth.
Read More…form the lower lip, or labium. Sometimes a median tonguelike structure, called the hypopharynx, arises from the floor of the mouth.
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heteropteranMouthparts…composed of a troughlike, four-segmented labium in which lie four stylets; these are modified mandibles and maxillae. Each of the hairlike maxillae has two major grooves plus minor grooves and ridges along its median surface. When brought together and locked by the minor grooves and ridges, the two major grooves…
Read More…composed of a troughlike, four-segmented labium in which lie four stylets; these are modified mandibles and maxillae. Each of the hairlike maxillae has two major grooves plus minor grooves and ridges along its median surface. When brought together and locked by the minor grooves and ridges, the two major grooves…
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