Coccidophagy
- Pronunciation
- /kok-sih-DAH-fuh-jee/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Coccidophagy
- Plural
- Coccidophagies
Definition
The act of feeding on scale insects (Coccoidea), commonly exhibited by certain insects and arachnids.
Etymology
From Greek 'kokkos', meaning 'berry' (referring to the round shape of scale insects), and 'phagein', meaning 'to eat'.
Example
Ladybugs are known for their coccidophagy, feeding primarily on scale insects found on plants.
Synonyms
- Scale insect predation
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Coccidophagy is an important behavior for natural pest control, helping to manage populations of scale insects that can damage plants.