| 释义 |
physogastrism Ent.|faɪsəʊˈgæstrɪz(ə)m|
[ad. G. physogastre (E. Wasmann Kritisches Verzeichniss d. Myrmekophilen u. Termitophilen Arthropoden (1894) 87), f. physo- + Gr. γαστ(ε)ρ-, γαστήρ, belly: see -ism.]
In certain insects, a condition in which the abdomen becomes distended by the growth of fat bodies or other organs. Also ˈphysogastry in the same sense. So physoˈgastric a., exhibiting this condition.
1903Nature 12 Feb. 351/1 They [sc. symphilous beetles] also show certain modifications of the mouth-organs.., as well as ‘physogastrism’, accompanied by excessive development of the fat-bodies, or sexual glands. 1914Ann. Natal Museum III. 103 Dr. Trägårdh examined many nests of termites in Natal, but no other physogastric Staphylinids were discovered. 1920Ibid. IV. 326 In the female there is no excessive amount of fat-body. The physogastrism is mainly due to the great bulk of the genital organs and of the mid-gut. 1922W. M. Wheeler Social Life Insects vi. 273 Many [termitophiles]..have acquired peculiar characters, the most characteristic of which is physogastry, or excessive enlargement of the abdomen. Ibid. 277 Probably this is also the case with other physogastric termitophiles. 1952Rothschild & Clay Fleas, Flukes & Cuckoos xi. 222 The abdomen becomes enormously distended owing to the abnormal growth of the fatty tissues. This curious condition is known as physogastry and it is usually developed by flies or beetles which are parasitic or symbiotic in ants' or termites' nests. 1971R. R. Askew Parasitic Insects v. 73 The abdomen [of Ascodipteron] becomes bloated (physogastric) as the fly takes in blood from the host. Ibid. 311/2 Physogastry. |