Leaf-stripper

A leaf-stripper is an organism, typically an insect or larva, that consumes the leaves of plants. This feeding behavior can range from minor nibbling to complete defoliation, causing stress or even death to the affected plants. The impact of leaf-strippers can be significant in agricultural settings, forests, and gardens, necessitating pest control measures to mitigate damage and protect plant health. The term often highlights the destructive nature of the organism's feeding habits.

Leaf-stripper meaning with examples

• The infestation of the cornfield by the *leaf-strippers* resulted in a significant drop in yield, forcing the farmer to use additional pesticides. The relentless consumption of the leaves left the corn stalks weakened and unable to produce. The farmer had been unable to monitor the plants for pest problems and missed signs early on.
• After a dry summer, the apple orchard faced a crisis; the *leaf-strippers* rapidly spread, devastating the fruit trees' canopies and jeopardizing the upcoming harvest. The orchard owner urgently sought advice on dealing with the infestation. The spread was so rapid due to the weakness of the trees following the summer.
• In the botanical garden, the rose bushes were decimated by a particular leaf-stripper species. The garden's staff worked hard to identify and eliminate the pest. The bushes that had been pruned and cared for were still suffering. The delicate plants needed more attention than the staff had the ability to provide.
• The caterpillar, a common leaf-stripper, caused extensive damage to the willow trees lining the riverbank. The caterpillars devoured most of the foliage, impacting the trees' ability to photosynthesize and weakening their defenses. The defoliation was visible from far away.
• The forest, once a lush canopy of green, was invaded by a swarm of *leaf-strippers* that transformed it into a barren landscape. The leaves fell to the ground. The trees were in distress. The forest floor was covered in waste and plant life, which caused a smell that was unbearable.