A tail-like appendage, especially one of a pair of sensory structures (cerci) found at the rear end of insects and some other arthropods.
From Greek 'kerkos' meaning 'tail.' This anatomical term has been used since the 18th century in entomology to describe insect structures. The plural is 'cerci.'
Insect cerci are like their antennae, but on the wrong end—they're incredibly sensitive touch-sensors that help insects detect air movements and vibrations, making them aware of predators or mates sneaking up from behind!
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