Insectivore

Pronunciation: /in-SEK-tuh-vawr/

Category: Ecology

Singular: Insectivore

Plural: Insectivores

Definition

An organism that primarily feeds on insects.

Etymology

From Latin 'insectum', meaning 'insect', and 'vorare', meaning 'to devour'.

Example

Certain bats are insectivores, feeding on flying insects such as moths and mosquitoes.

Synonyms

Insect-eater

Related Terms

Carnivore
Herbivore
Omnivore
Predator
Prey

Usage Notes

Insectivores can be found across multiple classes including mammals, birds, amphibians, and other insects. This term can also be applied to plants that capture and digest insects, such as the Venus flytrap.