Definition

Noun A large moth species, Samia walkeri, native to Asia but introduced to the United States. Its caterpillars (larvae) feed on the leaves of the Ailanthus tree (commonly known as the tree of heaven).

Usage Notes

This is a specific scientific name for an insect. It is used in formal contexts such as entomology (the study of insects), biology, ecology, and pest management. It is not a common word in everyday conversation.

Examples

• The Samia walkeri has become established in some urban areas where its host plant, the Ailanthus, is common.
• Researchers are studying the life cycle of Samia walkeri.
• The caterpillar of Samia walkeri can defoliate small Ailanthus trees.

Advanced Usage

• The name can be used in a binomial nomenclature format: . In scientific writing, the genus name () is often abbreviated after first use (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Ailanthus silkmoth: A common name for this species.
• Samia cynthia: A closely related and more widely known species, the Cynthia moth.
• Lepidoptera: The scientific order that includes moths and butterflies.
• Saturniidae: The family of giant silkmoths to which belongs.

Synonyms

• Ailanthus moth (This is a general common name that may refer to this or similar species feeding on Ailanthus).

Different Meanings

This term has only one specific meaning as the scientific name for a particular moth species. It is not used idiomatically.

Noun

1. large Asiatic moth introduced into the United States; larvae feed on the ailanthus