adecticous

Definition

Referring to insect pupae that lack functional mandibles, preventing them from using their mouthparts for cutting or chewing during the pupal stage.

Etymology

From the Greek 'a-', meaning 'without', and 'dektikos', meaning 'able to bite'.

Example

Most beetles have adecticous pupae, relying on other mechanisms to emerge from the pupal case.

Synonyms

• Non-mandibulate pupae

Related Terms

• Pupa
• Mandibles
• Exarate
• Obtect

Usage Notes

Adecticous pupae are contrasted with decticous pupae, which have functional mandibles.