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noun Cankerworm n. (Zool.) The larva of two species of geometrid moths which are very injurious to fruit and shade trees by eating, and often entirely destroying, the foliage. Other similar larvae are also called cankerworms. Note: The autumnal species (Anisopteryx pometaria) becomes adult late in autumn (after frosts) and in winter. The spring species (Anisopteryx vernata) remains in the ground through the winter, and matures in early spring. Both have winged males and wingless females. The larvae are similar in appearance and habits, and belong to the family of measuring worms or spanworms. These larvae hatch from the eggs when the leaves begin to expand in spring.
Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48
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