Sequestering
- Pronunciation
- /si-KWES-tuh-ring/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Sequestering
- Plural
- Sequesterings
Definition
The process by which certain insects, such as caterpillars, accumulate and store toxic compounds from their host plants to use as a defense mechanism against predators.
Etymology
From Latin 'sequestrare', meaning 'to set aside' or 'to separate'.
Example
The Monarch caterpillar is known for sequestering toxic cardiac glycosides from milkweed plants.
Synonyms
- Bioaccumulation
Related Terms
- Defensive sequestration
- Host plant
- Toxic compounds
- Caterpillars
- Predation
Usage Notes
Sequestering is a defense strategy seen in various insect species, providing them with protection by making them unpalatable or toxic to predators.