Microsporidae
- Pronunciation
- /mi-kro-spor-i-dee/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Microsporidium
- Plural
- Microsporidia
Definition
A family of parasitic microsporidian fungi that infect a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates, including insects.
Etymology
From Greek 'mikros', meaning 'small', and 'sporos', meaning 'seed'.
Example
Microsporidia are commonly found in insects and are known to cause significant mortality in agricultural pests.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Microsporidia are obligate parasites, meaning they require a host to survive.