Gnathobase

Gnathobases (from Ancient Greek γνάθος (gnáthos) 'jaw' and βᾰ́σῐς (básis) 'base') are paired modified sections on the underside of the base of some arthropod limbs (specifically on the basipod/basipodite, the basalmost segment which attaches directly to the body), used for food processing. They typically feature hard sclerotised spines (endites), which serve a masticatory function such as crushing and shredding prey, and can also aid in transporting food towards the mouth.

Gnathobases are present in extant and extinct arthropods, though only horseshoe crabs today have a well developed series of gnathobases along their limbs.

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