DORSAL ORGAN

dorsal organ: translation

Poorly understood glandular-sensory structures (actually several different structures that may or may not be homologous) on the head of many crustaceans [Brusca and Brusca, 2002].

Thickened glandular area of hypoderm of dorsal surface just behind head in various branchiopods, isopods, amphipods, mysidaceans, tanaidaceans, and syncarids, its function obscure [Moore and McCormick, 1969].

Thickened glandular area of hypoderm on dorsal surface, usually in posterior of cephalon, sometimes in anterior part; not homologous in all taxa [McLaughlin, 1980].

Unpaired organ of unknown function located behind compound eyes on dorsal surface of carapace. (considerably behind eye tubercles, anterior part between eye tubercles; circular, somewhat triangular). (Syn. nuchal organ) [Stachowitsch, 1992].

dorsal organ: translation

1. (ANNELIDA: Polychaeta)

In Orbiniida and Spionida, ciliated sensory tubercles, ridges, or bands located on the dorsal surface of the segments; see lateral organs.

2. (ARTHROPODA: Crustacea)

Thickened glandular area of hypoderm on the dorsal surface in the posterior or anterior part of the cephalon.

3. (ARTHROPODA: Insecta)

A distinct mass of cells in the dorsal part of an embryo.