Cheliferous

/kɛˈlɪfərəs/ adjective

Definition

Bearing or possessing pincers or claw-like appendages, especially in arthropods and arachnids.

Etymology

From Greek 'chele' (claw/pincer) plus Latin 'ferre' (to bear) plus '-ous' (full of/characterized by), literally 'claw-bearing' or 'pincer-bearing.'

Kelly Says

Many arthropods are cheliferous—from crabs and lobsters to spiders and scorpions—and that diversity shows how evolution stumbled onto the pincer design as incredibly useful for grasping, defense, and manipulation. It's one of evolution's greatest inventions!

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