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Glite Dictionary
plecopteran

plecopteran

9.9
An insect with wings and a flat body whose young live in water, often used as bait
  • noun
  • /plɪˈkɒptərən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : plecóptero
  • Many fishermen use plecopteran larvae as live bait when angling for trout.

Examples

  • The biologist collected several plecopteran specimens from the stream to study their gill development.

  • The plecopteran is often found near freshwater streams.

  • A decline in plecopteran populations can indicate worsening water quality in freshwater habitats.

  • Many anglers prefer using plecopterans as bait.

  • Many fishermen use plecopteran larvae as live bait when angling for trout.

  • A decline in plecopteran populations can indicate worsening water quality in freshwater habitats.

  • The biologist collected several plecopteran specimens from the stream to study their gill development.

Synonyms

stonefly
vsplecopteran
1 8.7

A small insect with a flat body whose larvae live under stones in streams and fishermen use as bait

is the broader term focusing on primitive winged insect often used as bait
stone fly
vsplecopteran
  • Specialized
8.9

A winged insect that lives near streams and whose young live under stones in water

is the general term stressing primitive winged insect and aquatic larvae

Surface Forms

plecopteran singular
plecopterans plural

Etymology

Plecopteran comes from Greek parts pleco- meaning 'twisted' or 'braided' and -ptera meaning 'wing', like in helicopter. So, a plecopteran is a winged insect whose wings fold flat or appear twisted, and many live as larvae in water, which helps you remember it is a water-loving winged insect.