Polyunsaturated fatty acids

Definition

Fats that have two or more double bonds in their hydrocarbon chains, making them liquid at room temperature.

Etymology

From Greek 'poly-', meaning 'many', and 'unsaturated', referring to the multiple double bonds present.

Example

Many insects require polyunsaturated fatty acids for their development and survival.

Related Terms

• Unsaturated
• Essential fatty acids

Usage Notes

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for various physiological processes in insects, including membrane fluidity, hormone signaling, and immune function.