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Angliholic Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

insect matter/waste

Tillandsia leaves collect dust, decaying leaves, and insect matter from the air in order to obtain water and nutrients.

Hi,
Is it correct to see "insect matter" in the above as "insect waste?" Thanks.
  

Top answer

I understand it to mean that the plant does not trap live insects (which would be implied by "collect ... insects"), but traps the dead remains of insects and parts of insect bodies. "Insect waste" to me implies insect droppings (faeces), which is a different thing.

— Mr Wordy

  • I understand it to mean that the plant does not trap live insects (which would be implied by "collect ...
  • insects"), but traps the dead remains of insects and parts of insect bodies.
  • "Insect waste" to me implies insect droppings (faeces), which is a different thing.
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1 Answers
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I understand it to mean that the plant does not trap live insects (which would be implied by "collect ... insects"), but traps the dead remains of insects and parts of insect bodies.

"Insect waste" to me implies insect droppings (faeces), which is a different thing.
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