raptorial forelegs
Prey-seizing limbs
Raptorial forelegs are the grasping front limbs of predatory insects like praying mantises, designed to seize and hold prey.
The term comes from the same root as raptor—to seize.
These limbs are typically enlarged, spined, and capable of snapping shut with great speed: The mantis struck with its raptorial forelegs before the fly could react.
- praying mantisPredatory insect with grasping forelegs
- immobilizingPreventing any motion
- ambush predatorHunter that strikes from concealment
- spinesStiff, pointed projections
- serrationsToothlike edge projections
grasping · hooks · striking · lightning strike · convergent evolution · joint flexibility · claws · mantis · femur · holding · death grip · piercing · tearing · razor sharp · ambushing · lie in wait · capturing · trapping
- insect anatomyabdomen, antennae, thorax, exoskeleton, head