Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of primitive, wingless insects: "family Lepismatidae" is the scientific name for a family of insects within the order Zygentoma, commonly known as silverfish and firebrats. These are small, nocturnal insects characterized by their silvery scales, three long tail filaments, and avoidance of light.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The family Lepismatidae includes some of the most common household pests, such as the silverfish.
  • Entomologists study the family Lepismatidae to understand the evolution of wingless insects.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The term is used in formal scientific contexts to categorize and discuss these specific insects.
  • The specimen was definitively placed within the family Lepismatidae based on its morphological characteristics.

Variants and Related Words

• Lepismatid (noun/adjective): A member of the family Lepismatidae; pertaining to this family.
  • Several lepismatid species are found in human dwellings.
• Silverfish (noun): The common name for insects of the species , a member of the family Lepismatidae.
• Firebrat (noun): The common name for insects of the species , a member of the family Lepismatidae.

Synonyms

• Zygentoman family: Refers to a family within the order Zygentoma.
• Bristletail family: A less precise common name, as "bristletail" can refer to other insect orders.

Related Terms (Scientific Context)

• Thysanura (obsolete noun): An older taxonomic order name that previously included the family Lepismatidae.
• Zygentoma (noun): The current insect order to which the family Lepismatidae belongs.

Noun

1. firebrats