Figworm

/ˈfɪɡwɜːrm/ noun

Definition

A caterpillar or larva that feeds on fig plants, particularly the larva of certain moths that damage fig crops.

Etymology

Compound of fig (the fruit tree) + worm (creature). A straightforward descriptive term combining two Old English/Germanic roots to identify a pest specific to fig cultivation.

Kelly Says

The fig wasp's relationship to figs is so co-evolved that figs literally cannot reproduce without the wasp — but figworms are the destructive cousins that farmers desperately try to prevent from eating their crop.

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