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Glite Dictionary
isopteran

isopteran

9.9
Relating to termites, small wood-eating insects
  • adjective
  • /ˌaɪsəˈpɛrən/
  • Specialized
: isóptero
  • The isopteran colonies play a vital role in decomposing plant material in tropical forests.

Examples

  • Unlike ants, isopteran insects have soft bodies and straight antennae.

  • Researchers studied the complex social behaviors present in isopteran species.

  • The isopteran species are known for their social behavior.

  • Many isopteran insects build complex colonies.

  • Researchers studied the complex social behaviors present in isopteran species.

  • The isopteran colonies play a vital role in decomposing plant material in tropical forests.

  • Unlike ants, isopteran insects have soft bodies and straight antennae.

Surface Forms

isopteran positive

Morphology

isopteran = isoptera (opaque) = iso + pter + an

The immediate base 'isoptera' is a scientific term not recognizable to most English learners.

Etymology

Isopteran comes from the Greek parts iso- 'equal' and pteron 'wing', so it means 'equal wings' and you can spot pteron in familiar words like helicopter to remember 'wing'. That's why isopteran is used for termites and things relating to that group of insects.