BROWNTAIL MOTH Meaning and
Definition
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The browntail moth refers to a species of moth scientifically known as Euproctis chrysorrhoea. It is a medium-sized moth species found in various regions of Europe, including the United Kingdom. The adult browntail moth has distinctive brown-colored wings with white markings and an overall wingspan of about 25-35 millimeters.
However, the moth's larvae attract more attention and notoriety due to their irritating and harmful nature. The browntail moth caterpillars have distinctive white hairs along their bodies, with prominent red-brown hairs on their tails. These hairs, when touched or inhaled, can cause severe allergic reactions and skin irritations in humans, leading to a condition known as browntail moth rash.
The caterpillars of the browntail moth typically feed on various deciduous trees, including oak, hawthorn, apple, and cherry. The infestation of these caterpillars can cause defoliation and damage to these trees as they consume the leaves. Additionally, the hairs of the caterpillars can also become airborne and pose a health risk to individuals within the affected areas.
To prevent and control the spread of browntail moth infestation, measures such as nest removal and spraying with appropriate insecticides are often taken. Monitoring populations and conducting public awareness campaigns are also crucial in managing the negative impacts of browntail moths.
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Euproctis chrysorrhaea; the nettling hairs of the caterpillar cause a troublesome dermatitis when brought in contact with the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BROWNTAIL MOTH
- brown-tail moth
- vrowntail moth
- nrowntail moth
- hrowntail moth
- growntail moth
- beowntail moth
- bdowntail moth
- bfowntail moth
- btowntail moth
- b5owntail moth
- b4owntail moth
- briwntail moth
- brkwntail moth
- brlwntail moth
- brpwntail moth
- br0wntail moth
- br9wntail moth
- broqntail moth
- broantail moth
- brosntail moth
Etymology of BROWNTAIL MOTH
The word "browntail moth" is a compound term that combines the words "brown" and "tail" with "moth" to describe a particular species of moth. Here is the etymology of the individual components:
1. Brown: The word "brown" derives from the Old English word "brūn", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "brūnaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root word "bherǔ-", meaning "shining" or "bright". Over time, the word evolved to specifically refer to the color brown.
2. Tail: The word "tail" comes from the Old English word "tæġel", which originated from the Proto-Germanic word "taglaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root word "deḱ-", meaning "to take" or "to seize".
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