Aphidicolous

/ˌæf.ɪd.ɪˈkɒl.əs/ adjective

Definition

Living on or inhabiting aphids, used to describe organisms like certain parasitic wasps that depend on aphids for survival.

Etymology

Combines 'aphidi-' (relating to aphids) with the Latin '-colous' meaning 'dwelling in or on.' This scientific term emerged in entomology to describe the ecological relationships between parasites and their aphid hosts.

Kelly Says

Some wasps are so specialized that they only hunt aphids—they're picky eaters that can smell an aphid from far away and lay their eggs inside it. The aphid becomes a nursery for the wasp baby!

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