A Mechadendrite is the term used for a large assortment of tentacle-like bionic prosthetics used by the Tech-priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus and the Techmarines of the Adeptus Astartes. A Mechadendrite is used by the Tech-priest or Techmarine for micro-construction, maintenance, scientific research and even defensive firepower. Most Mechadendrites contain a number of tools, devices or weapons that are intended to serve the specific functions required by their use. A Mechadendrite is hard-wired into the central nervous system of the Tech-priest or Techmarine and surgically attached to the spine, so that it is controlled by its user's mind using neural impulses just like a biological limb. Mechadendrites are constructed from various metallic alloys and have innumerable motors and actuators encased within their structures. A set of Mechadendrites are normally much longer than a human's natural limbs and possess multiple segemented joints to allow maximum reach and flexibility, giving them the appearance of serpentine tentacles. Tech-priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus with the rank of Enginseer and above are known to possess and even eagerly seek out the implantation of Mechadendrites, and although they may often have only a single one of the bionic tentacles fitted, it is possible to implant as many of the augmetic limbs as the human body's anatomy will allow. Servitors can also have Mechadendrites implanted so that they can assist a Techmarine or Tech-priest in their duties.

Sources

• Death or Glory (Novel)
• Inquisitor Rulebook, p. 81
• Dark Heresy Core Rulebook (RPG)