Definition

Noun: * A taxonomic genus of moths: "genus Hyalophora" is the scientific name for a genus of large, silk-producing moths native to North America. It is classified within the family Saturniidae.

Usage

• This term is used exclusively in scientific and entomological contexts to classify and discuss a specific group of moths.
• It is always capitalized as it is a proper noun (a genus name).

Examples

• Scientific Classification:
  • The genus Hyalophora includes some of the largest moths in North America.
  • Caterpillars of genus Hyalophora are known for their vivid colors and prominent tubercles.
• Research Context:
  • The study focused on the silk properties of species within the genus Hyalophora.
  • He is an expert on the life cycle of moths in the genus Hyalophora.

Advanced Usage

• In formal taxonomic writing, the genus name is often italicized: .
• When followed by a specific species name, the genus is abbreviated after first use (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Hyalophora cecropia (n): The Cecropia moth, a common and large species within this genus.
• Saturniidae (n): The family of moths to which the genus belongs, often called giant silk moths.
• American silkworm moth (n): A common name for moths in this genus, referring to their ability to produce silk cocoons, though they are not used commercially like the domestic silkmoth ().

Synonyms

• There are no direct common-language synonyms for this scientific taxonomic term. In informal contexts, it may be referred to by the common names of its member species (e.g., "Cecropia moth genus").

Related Phrases

• Silk-producing moth: A descriptive phrase for the functional characteristic of this genus.
• Giant silk moth: A common name for the family (Saturniidae) that includes this genus.

Noun

1. American silkworm moth