Screwworm: meaning, definitions and examples
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screwworm
[ ˈskruːwɜːrm ]
parasitic insect
A screwworm is the larval stage of certain species of flies that infest and feed on living tissue of warm-blooded animals. These insects are known for causing severe damage and suffering in livestock and can lead to significant economic losses in agriculture. The most notorious species is the primary screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, which primarily affects livestock and can also infect humans under specific circumstances. Effective control measures involve both biological and chemical methods to reduce their populations and prevent infestation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The rancher had to treat his cattle for screwworm infestations.
- Screwworms pose a serious threat to the health of livestock.
- The veterinary team implemented a plan to eliminate screwworms from the region.
Translations
Translations of the word "screwworm" in other languages:
🇵🇹 verme de parafuso
🇮🇳 स्क्रूवर्म
🇩🇪 Schraubenwurm
🇮🇩 cacing sekrup
🇺🇦 гвинтовий черв'як
🇵🇱 robak śrubowy
🇯🇵 ネジワーム
🇫🇷 ver de vis
🇪🇸 gusano de tornillo
🇹🇷 vida solucanı
🇰🇷 스크류웜
🇸🇦 دودة البرغي
🇨🇿 šroubový červ
🇸🇰 šroubový červ
🇨🇳 螺丝虫
🇸🇮 navojni črv
🇮🇸 skrúfuormur
🇰🇿 винт құрт
🇬🇪 ბოლტი ჭია
🇦🇿 vida qurd
🇲🇽 gusano de tornillo
Etymology
The term 'screwworm' originates from its characteristic behavior of burrowing into living tissue, resembling a screw. The term has been in use since at least the 19th century, and it particularly became prominent in the context of agriculture and veterinary science. The screwworm is closely associated with the life cycles of certain fly species, especially in the family Calliphoridae. Early studies in entomology helped to identify and describe these pests, leading to advancements in control methods. The economic impact of screwworm infestations prompted researchers to develop innovative strategies, including sterile insect techniques, which have significantly reduced their populations in various regions around the world. The term continues to be relevant in discussions surrounding pest management and animal health.