Question

Distinguish between scolopidia and sensillae. (U)

Answer 1

Scolopidia are subcuticular units used for mechanoreception located on chordotonal organs. These organs convert mechanical vibrations to nerve impulse which are sent to higher ganglions for information processing. They are of two types; having cap end or free end while sensillae are units of chemoreceptors and cuticular receptors also known as sensillum. They are usually small hairs modified for perceiving specific stimuli such as touch, taste, smell, cold etc.