macrochaetae

Macrochaetae are large bristles, or setae, that project from the cuticle of many arthropods, particularly insects and mites. They are larger than microchaetae and are often more conspicuous in preserved specimens, though size and prominence can vary among taxa. Macrochaetae can occur singly or in characteristic patterns on segments of the body such as the head, thorax, and abdomen in insects; in mites they may decorate the dorsal shield and appendages.

Functionally, macrochaetae serve primarily as tactile sensors, helping the animal detect air currents, contact with surfaces, and other mechanical stimuli. In some groups they may also play a role in protective camouflage or display, but their primary role is sensory.

Development and patterning: The placement and number of macrochaetae are genetically determined, producing species- or group-specific chaetotaxy, the arrangement of setae on the body. The macrochaetae are typically anchored by sockets in the cuticle and can be either thickened or curved.

Taxonomic usage: Because macrochaetae show stable positional patterns within taxa, their presence, absence, and arrangement are used as diagnostic characters in species descriptions and keys, especially for groups with small body size or subtle color differences. The term is commonly used in acarology (mites) and in dipteran and lepidopteran morphology.

Related terms: Macrochaetae are contrasted with microchaetae (smaller bristles). The study of their arrangement is called chaetotaxy.