ambrosia

Definition

A substance produced by certain beetles, especially ambrosia beetles, that cultivates specialized fungi as their primary food source.

Etymology

Derived from Greek 'ambrotos', meaning 'immortal' or 'divine', referring to the food of the gods.

Example

Ambrosia beetles cultivate fungi inside their galleries, relying on the ambrosia to sustain their colonies.

Related Terms

• Ambrosia beetles
• Fungi cultivation
• Gallery

Usage Notes

Ambrosia is vital for the survival of ambrosia beetles, as they rely on the fungi it cultivates for sustenance.