Postembryo

Pronunciation: /pohst-EM-bree-oh/

Category: Development

Singular: Postembryo

Plural: Postembryos

Definition

The initial developmental stage of certain arthropods after hatching but before they reach more advanced stages like larvae, nymphs, or adults. It is not commonly used for insects but is more relevant to other arthropods like mites and spiders.

Etymology

From Latin 'post-' meaning 'after' and 'embryo' from Greek 'embruon', meaning 'a young one, embryo'.

Example

The postembryo stage of the mite involves several changes before it becomes a larva.

Related Terms

Metamorphosis
Instar
Nymph

Usage Notes

The term postembryo is more specific to certain arthropods such as mites and spiders and is less commonly used for insects.