pedipalp

anatomy

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Pedipalps are the second pair of appendages found on arachnids, such as spiders and scorpions. These appendages are located on each side of the mouth and can have specialized functions like grasping or feeling.1

In spiders, pedipalps are typically leglike and are used by females and immature males to handle food and act as sensory organs. In adult male spiders, pedipalps are modified to transfer sperm during reproduction. Scorpions, on the other hand, have large, pincer-like pedipalps. The basal segment of the pedipalp in spiders can also be modified for feeding.21

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scorpion
External features
The pedipalps originate in the second segment and terminate in pincers. Pedipalps are used for a variety of purposes, including prey capture, defense, courtship, and burrow excavation. A pair of legs are found on each of segments three through six. The pedipalps and legs are composed…
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The pedipalps originate in the second segment and terminate in pincers. Pedipalps are used for a variety of purposes, including prey capture, defense, courtship, and burrow excavation. A pair of legs are found on each of segments three through six. The pedipalps and legs are composed…
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spider
External features
…second pair of appendages, the pedipalps, are modified in the males of all adult spiders to carry sperm (see below Reproduction and life cycle). In females and immature males, the leglike pedipalps are used to handle food and also function as sense organs. The pedipalpal segment (coxa) attached to the…
Read More
…second pair of appendages, the pedipalps, are modified in the males of all adult spiders to carry sperm (see below Reproduction and life cycle). In females and immature males, the leglike pedipalps are used to handle food and also function as sense organs. The pedipalpal segment (coxa) attached to the…
Read More