Ceratophagy

Definition

The behavior of certain insects that involves feeding on or consuming keratin-based substances such as feathers, hair, and horns.

Etymology

From Greek 'kerato-', meaning 'horn', and '-phagy', meaning 'eating'.

Example

Some species of beetles exhibit ceratophagy by consuming bird feathers and animal horns.

Synonyms

• Keratinophagy

Related Terms

• Keratin
• Feeding behavior
• Ethology

Usage Notes

Ceratophagy is observed in a limited number of insect species and contributes to the decomposition and recycling of keratinous materials in nature.