Potato tuberworm
- Pronunciation
- /puh-TAY-toh TOO-ber worm/
- Category
- Entomology
- Singular
- Potato tuberworm
- Plural
- Potato tuberworms
Definition
A pest of potatoes and other crops, characterized by its ability to infest potato tubers during storage.
Etymology
From the Latin 'tuber' meaning swelling or lump, referring to tuberous plant organs, and 'worm' referring to its larval stage.
Example
Potato tuberworm larvae feed within potato tubers, causing significant economic losses.
Related Terms
- Phthorimaea operculella
- Potato pest
- Tubers
Usage Notes
Potato tuberworm is a global pest, especially in areas where potatoes are grown and stored for extended periods.