What are chelicerae in spiders?

Chelicerae are specialized appendages found in spiders that serve as fangs for injecting venom into their prey. These structures are part of the spider's mouthparts and are typically equipped with a venom gland that allows spiders to subdue their prey effectively. When a spider captures its meal, it uses the chelicerae to pierce the exoskeleton of the prey and inject venom, which helps to immobilize or digest the organism. This adaptation is crucial for the spider’s feeding strategy, as many prey species are often larger or more mobile than the spider itself.

The other options refer to different aspects of a spider’s anatomy or behavior. For instance, while some limbs are indeed specialized for hunting, they are not defined as chelicerae. The digestive organs have a separate structure and function, distinct from the chelicerae, which focus primarily on immobilizing prey rather than processing it. Lastly, web-spinning organs belong to a different part of the spider's anatomy called spinnerets, which are not related to the chelicerae but are vital for creating webs. Understanding the specific role and function of chelicerae clarifies their importance in the hunting and feeding practices of spiders.