Cossidae

Pronunciation
/ko-SIGH-dee-ee/
Category
Taxonomy
Plural
Cossidae

Definition

A family of moths characterized by their robust bodies, often with rough scaling on the head, and a tendency to bore into plant stems.

Etymology

Named after the type genus *Cossus*; the origin of the name is not clearly defined, but it may relate to an old term for a large moth.

Example

The Cossidae family includes many species of wood-boring moths, some of which are considered agricultural pests.

Related Terms