Definition

Noun: - A taxonomic genus of moths: "genus Automeris" refers to a specific genus within the insect order Lepidoptera, family Saturniidae. This genus is characterized by its member species, which are commonly known as io moths. These moths are notable for the distinctive eyespots on their hindwings.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The genus Automeris includes several species of colorful moths.
  • Biologists studied the life cycle of a caterpillar from the genus Automeris.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The name is used in the formal, scientific binomial nomenclature system to group related species.
  • The specimen was keyed out and identified as belonging to the genus Automeris.

Variants and Related Words

• Automeris io (n): The full scientific name for a specific species within the genus, commonly called the io moth.
  • Automeris io is found throughout North America.
• Saturniid (n): A common name for moths in the family Saturniidae, to which this genus belongs.
  • Saturniids, like those in genus Automeris, are often large and brightly colored.

Synonyms

• Io moth genus: A descriptive, common-name synonym referencing the most recognizable species within the genus.

Related Terms

• Eyespot (n): A marking that resembles an eye, a key identifying feature for moths in this genus.
  • The prominent eyespots on the hindwings are a defense mechanism for genus Automeris moths.
• Lepidoptera (n): The insect order containing all moths and butterflies.
  • Genus Automeris is part of the diverse order Lepidoptera.

Noun

1. io moth