Adephaga
- Pronunciation
- /AD-eh-FAH-guh/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Adephagan
- Plural
- Adephagans
Definition
A suborder of beetles characterized by their mandibles being modified into powerful jaws used for biting and chewing. This group includes ground beetles and predatory diving beetles.
Etymology
From Greek 'adēphagos' meaning 'gluttonous' or 'greedy,' referring to their predatory nature.
Example
Adephaga includes a diverse group of beetles, such as ground beetles and diving beetles.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Often studied for their ecological role as predators.