Encapsulation

Definition

The process by which an insect or arachnid surrounds a foreign object or pathogen with hemocytes and other immune components, effectively isolating it from the rest of the body.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'capsula', meaning 'small box' or 'container', with the prefix 'en-' indicating 'inside'.

Example

The encapsulation of parasitic eggs by hymenopteran larvae serves as a defense mechanism against internal parasites.

Synonyms

• Immune encapsulation

Related Terms

• Hemocytes
• Immune response
• Pathogen
• Parasitism

Usage Notes

Encapsulation is a crucial part of the immune response in many insects and arachnids and is often studied in the context of host-parasite interactions.