Larviparous

Definition

Referring to organisms, particularly certain types of insects, that give birth to live larvae rather than laying eggs.

Etymology

From Latin 'larva', meaning 'ghost' or 'mask' (referring to the larval stage of insects), and '-parous', meaning 'giving birth to' or 'producing'.

Example

Many species of tsetse flies are larviparous, giving birth to live larvae that later pupate.

Synonyms

• Live-bearing

Related Terms

• Viviparous
• Ovoviviparous
• Oviparous
• Larvae

Usage Notes

Larviparous reproduction is relatively rare among insects and is seen in some Diptera (flies) and a few other taxa.