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genus Phyllium

genus Phyllium

9.9
A group of leaf insects that look like real leaves to hide
  • noun
  • Specialized
: género Phyllium
  • The genus Phyllium includes several species of leaf insects notable for their camouflage.

Examples

  • Researchers have discovered a new member of the genus Phyllium in Southeast Asia.

  • Many species within the genus Phyllium are masters of camouflage.

  • Members of the genus Phyllium are masters of mimicry, often mistaken for leaves.

  • The genus Phyllium includes some of the most fascinating insects.

  • Members of the genus Phyllium are masters of mimicry, often mistaken for leaves.

  • The genus Phyllium includes several species of leaf insects notable for their camouflage.

  • Researchers have discovered a new member of the genus Phyllium in Southeast Asia.

Synonyms

Phyllium
vsgenus Phyllium
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of insects that look like leaves to hide from other animals

is the taxonomic type for the family and highlights mimicry over mere appearance

Surface Forms

Morphology

genus + Phyllium

This noun phrase is fully compositional: 'genus' (a biological rank) combined with the proper name 'Phyllium' denotes the taxonomic group named Phyllium. A B1 learner who knows both constituent meanings can directly derive that this refers to the genus called Phyllium, so the expression is transparent.

Etymology

Genus Phyllium comes from older words: genus means 'group' and Phyllium comes from a Greek word for 'leaf'. Because these insects really look like leaves, the name means the 'leaf' group of insects and helps you remember they pretend to be leaves.