Deutomala

/ˌdjuːtəˈmɑːlə/ noun

Definition

The second maxilla or jaw-related appendage in arthropods, or a secondary maxillary structure in crustaceans and insects.

Etymology

From Greek deuteros (second) + mala (jaw, cheek). A zoological term for the second pair of jaw appendages in arthropods.

Kelly Says

Crabs and lobsters have multiple pairs of jaw parts stacked on top of each other, and the deutomala are the 'second set'—they work together with the front jaws to process food in assembly-line fashion!

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