ocellus

[oh-sel-uhs]

ocellus Definition

a simple eye or eyespot, especially one of the spots on the wings of some butterflies and moths.

Using ocellus: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ocellus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The butterfly's wings had two large ocelli.

  • Example

    The moth's ocellus was used to deter predators.

ocellus Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ocellus

Phrases with ocellus

  • an eyespot that is not a true ocellus because it does not contain a lens or retina

    Example

    The false ocelli on the moth's wings were used to confuse predators.

  • an eyespot that is composed of many individual photoreceptor cells

    Example

    The compound ocelli of some insects allow them to detect changes in light intensity.

  • an eyespot that consists of a single photoreceptor cell

    Example

    The simple ocelli of some invertebrates can detect light but not form images.

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Summary: ocellus in Brief

'Ocellus' [oh-sel-uhs] refers to a simple eye or eyespot found on the wings of some butterflies and moths. These ocelli are used for various purposes, including deterring predators. There are different types of ocelli, such as 'false ocelli,' which do not contain a lens or retina, and 'compound ocelli,' which are composed of many individual photoreceptor cells.