Brand
- Pronunciation
- /brand/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Brand
- Plural
- Brands
Definition
A diagnostic mark or pattern on the body of an insect or arachnid that aids in species identification.
Etymology
From Old English 'brand', meaning 'fire, flame, or torch', possibly alluding to a mark or stripe as a distinguishing feature.
Example
The distinct brands on the wings of the dragonfly helped the entomologist to identify its species.
Synonyms
- Mark
- Stripe
- Pattern
Related Terms
- Morphology
- Identification
- Species
Usage Notes
Brands can be crucial for distinguishing between visually similar species and are often used in taxonomic keys.