Definition

Noun: A taxonomic family of moths within the order Lepidoptera, commonly known as the silkworm moths. The most well-known member is the domesticated silkworm moth (Bombyx mori), which is of significant economic importance for silk production.

Usage Notes

• "Family Bombycidae" is a formal, scientific term used primarily in entomology, biology, and taxonomy.
• It is typically used in academic, scientific, or technical writing and discussions.
• In everyday language, the common names for its members, like "silkworm moth," are more frequently used.

Examples

• The family Bombycidae includes species whose larvae spin silk cocoons.
• Taxonomists have debated the placement of certain genera within the family Bombycidae.
• A key characteristic of the family Bombycidae is the reduced mouthparts in adults, as they do not feed.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a phylogenetic context to discuss evolutionary relationships among moths.
• It may appear in formal species classifications, e.g., " Linnaeus, 1758 (Family: Bombycidae)".

Variants and Related Words

• Bombycidae: The standard abbreviated form of the family name, used identically to "family Bombycidae."
• Bombycoid: (adjective) Relating to or characteristic of the superfamily Bombycoidea, which includes Bombycidae and other related families like Saturniidae.
• Bombycine: (adjective) Pertaining to the family Bombycidae; silky.

Synonyms

• Silkworm moth family (common name, not a scientific synonym)

Different Meanings / Contexts

This term has a single, specific meaning in biological taxonomy. It does not have idiomatic or figurative uses.

Noun

1. Chinese silkworm moth