Phytophagy
- Pronunciation
- /fy-TAH-fuh-jee/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Phytophagy
- Plural
- Phytophagies
Definition
The feeding on plants or plant material by insects or other organisms.
Etymology
From Greek 'phyto-', meaning 'plant', and '-phagy', meaning 'eating'.
Example
Phytophagy is common among caterpillars, which consume leaves as their primary food source.
Synonyms
- Herbivory
- Plant-eating
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Phytophagy can refer to any form of plant consumption, including leaves, stems, roots, seeds, and fruits.