Philopteridae
- Pronunciation
- /fil-OP-ter-i-dee/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Philopterid
- Plural
- Philopteridae
Definition
A family of wingless lice that parasitize birds.
Etymology
Named after the Greek words 'philos' (meaning 'loving') and 'pteron' (meaning 'wing'), although this is slightly misleading as they are wingless.
Example
The Philopteridae family includes several species that are known to parasitize various bird species worldwide.