What is the function of antennae?

The main function of the antenna is for the assessment of the physical and chemical properties of the environment. An antenna is used by arthropods for sensing. The antenna present in arthropods may vary in their functions like touch, air motion, vibration, heat. A single antenna of arthropods has a sensory organ of various types and different properties.

When describing the structure of an antenna, the three basic segments include scape or scapus which is the basal segment that articulates with the head. Pedicel or pedicellius, this is the second part of the segment. The flagellum is the all remaining segments. There are different types of antennae which include filiform, moniliform, serrate, setaceous, lamellate clavate, and many others.

The main function of the antennae is to make sure that it will assess the conditions of the environment where the insect is in. The antennae will be able to detect with the use of chemosensory and mechanosensory organs. These are organs that can be found in the antennae. Take note that even one single antenna will have all of these organs that will ensure that its function will be done properly.

There are some people who will refer to the antennae as “feelers.” The antennae are usually connected to the head of the arthropod. There may be some variations in the way that they look and their function.