Phagostimulant

Definition

A substance that stimulates feeding behavior in insects or other arthropods.

Etymology

From Greek 'phagein', meaning 'to eat', and Latin 'stimulus', meaning 'goad' or 'spur'.

Example

The addition of sugar can act as a phagostimulant for certain pest insects, leading to increased feeding.

Related Terms

• Feeding Behavior
• Gustatory Stimuli
• Insect Physiology

Usage Notes

Phagostimulants are often used in pest control strategies to lure insects to poisoned baits.