Which term refers to sensory appendages on the heads of arthropods used for touch and smell?

Which term refers to sensory appendages on the heads of arthropods used for touch and smell?

• A. Gills
• B. Wings
• C. Antennae
• D. Legs

Answer: (C)

Antennae are the sensory appendages on the heads of many arthropods that function as tactile and chemical sensors. They host mechanoreceptors for touch and chemoreceptors for detecting smells and tastes, helping organisms explore their environment, find food, and locate mates. This makes them the typical choice for sensing both contact and chemical cues. Gills are used for gas exchange, wings are for flight, and legs are primarily for movement—none of these on the head are specialized for touch and smell like antennae.

Antennae are the sensory appendages on the heads of many arthropods that function as tactile and chemical sensors. They host mechanoreceptors for touch and chemoreceptors for detecting smells and tastes, helping organisms explore their environment, find food, and locate mates. This makes them the typical choice for sensing both contact and chemical cues. Gills are used for gas exchange, wings are for flight, and legs are primarily for movement—none of these on the head are specialized for touch and smell like antennae.