Elateriform

Pronunciation
/ee-LAT-er-ih-form/
Category
Morphology

Definition

Having a shape or form similar to that of adult click beetles (family Elateridae), typically elongated and cylindrical.

Etymology

From the family name 'Elateridae', which derives from the Greek 'elatēr', meaning 'driver' or 'one who drives', referring to the beetles' ability to spring into the air.

Example

The larvae of many species in the family Elateridae are elateriform, which aids them in their burrowing lifestyle.

Synonyms

  • Click beetle-like

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Elateriform is often used to describe the larval stages of certain beetle families that possess a similar elongated and cylindrical shape.