Puparium

Pronunciation: /pyoo-PAIR-ee-uhm/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Puparium

Plural: Puparia

Definition

The hardened exoskeleton of a fly larva (maggot), within which the pupa forms and develops.

Etymology

From New Latin, derived from 'pupa', the Latin word for 'doll' or 'puppet', referring to the immature form of an insect.

Example

During the transformation from larvae to adult, the housefly goes through a stage within the protective puparium.

Related Terms

Pupa
Larva
Metamorphosis
Maggot

Usage Notes

The term 'puparium' specifically refers to the case of a higher dipteran fly, distinguishing it from other types of pupal cases in different insect orders.