protocneme

/prəˈtɒknimi/

Definitions

1. noun

A larval stage of the moth, particularly in the family Saturniidae, which undergoes a resting period before pupation.

“The scientist studied the protocneme of the luna moth to understand its life cycle.”

2. noun

In some classifications, a resting stage between the egg and larval stages of certain moths.

“The protocneme of the moth is often mistaken for a dead insect.”

Synonyms

  • caterpillar
  • instar
  • larva