NEUROPTEROUS Meaning and
Definition
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Neuropterous is an adjective used to describe insects belonging to the order Neuroptera, which is a diverse group including lacewings, antlions, and owlflies. The term "neuropterous" is derived from the Greek words "neuron" meaning nerve, and "ptera" meaning wings, indicating the characteristic feature of these insects.
Neuropterous insects possess delicate, transparent wings with numerous veins, resembling a network of nerves. Their wings are notable for their intricate patterns and texture, often resembling lace, hence the common name of lacewings. These insects are usually small to medium in size and possess long antennae.
One of the distinguishing features of neuropterous insects is their mouthparts, which are adapted for piercing and sucking. While some species are predatory, such as the lacewings and antlions, others feed on nectar and pollen. They are primarily beneficial insects and play a crucial role in controlling populations of other insects, particularly aphids and other plant pests.
The life cycle of neuropterous insects usually consists of a series of larval stages, during which they are active predators. The larvae of lacewings and antlions are well-known for their voracious appetite, preying on small insects or other arthropods. They are highly valued natural predators in agriculture and horticulture.
In conclusion, neuropterous refers to the order of insects known as Neuroptera, characterized by their delicate wings, diverse patterns, and piercing-sucking mouthparts. These insects are ecologically important due to their predatory nature and crucial role in pest control.
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Nerve-winged; pert. to the order neuroptera.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NEUROPTEROUS
- neuropterus
- beuropterous
- meuropterous
- jeuropterous
- heuropterous
- nwuropterous
- nsuropterous
- nduropterous
- nruropterous
- n4uropterous
- n3uropterous
- neyropterous
- nehropterous
- nejropterous
- neiropterous
- ne8ropterous
- ne7ropterous
- neueopterous
- neudopterous
- neufopterous
Etymology of NEUROPTEROUS
The word "Neuropterous" comes from the combination of two Greek terms: "neuros" meaning "nerve" and "pteron" meaning "wing". The Greek term "pterous" itself is derived from the word "ptera" meaning "wing". Therefore, "neuropterous" literally translates to "nerve-winged". This name was given to a group of insects known as the Neuroptera, which are characterized by their delicate, lace-like wings.
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