scolopidia
Scolopidia are the basic sensory units of chordotonal organs in many arthropods, especially insects and crustaceans. Each scolopidium typically contains a single bipolar mechanosensory neuron whose distal dendrite ends in a modified cilium and is enclosed by a scolopale cell that forms a distinctive scolopale. The unit is connected to supporting cells and is anchored to the cuticle by cap or attachment cells, enabling transmission of external mechanical forces to the neural element.
Functionally, deformation of the cuticle during sound, vibration, or limb movement deflects the dendritic cilium within
Distribution and roles vary by species and organ type. In insects, notable examples include Johnston's organ
Development and variation reflect ecological needs. Scolopidia arise from ectodermal tissue, with scolopale cells differentiating around