Acari is a term that is often used in various fields, including biology, medicine, and agriculture. It refers to a group of tiny arthropods that belong to the class Arachnida. These creatures are commonly known as mites and ticks, and they can be found in various habitats, including soil, water, and on the surface of plants and animals.
Definitions
Acari is a plural noun that refers to a group of arthropods that are characterized by their small size, eight legs, and lack of antennae. These creatures are found in various habitats, including soil, water, and on the surface of plants and animals. They are important in various fields, including agriculture, medicine, and ecology.
Origin
The word acari comes from the Greek word akari, which means “mite.” The term was first used in the 19th century to describe a group of arthropods that were previously classified as insects. Today, acari is used to refer to a group of arthropods that are classified as part of the class Arachnida.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, acari refers to “a large order of arachnids that includes the mites and ticks.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines acari as “a group of small arachnids that includes the mites and ticks.”
Associations
Acari are associated with various fields, including agriculture, medicine, and ecology. In agriculture, acari can be pests that damage crops and cause economic losses. In medicine, acari can be vectors of diseases that affect humans and animals. In ecology, acari are important in food webs and nutrient cycling.
Synonyms
Synonyms for acari include mites, ticks, and arachnids.
Antonyms
Antonyms for acari include insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.
The same root words
Other words that share the same root as acari include acaricide (a substance that kills mites and ticks) and acarology (the study of mites and ticks).
Example Sentences
- The acari infestation caused significant damage to the crop.
- The acari were found to be carriers of a deadly virus.
- The acari were an important part of the ecosystem, serving as food for many animals.
- The acaricide was effective in controlling the mite population.
- The acarology department at the university studied the diversity of mites and ticks in different habitats.