What does larviparous mean?
Larviparous refers to a reproductive strategy in certain animals, particularly some insects and fish, where they give birth to live young that are already in the larval stage of development. This is in contrast to oviparous species, which lay eggs outside the mother's body. Larviparous species often exhibit a form of reproduction known as ovoviviparity, where the eggs develop and hatch inside the mother's body, and the young are nourished by a yolk sac before being born alive. This strategy allows for the young to have a head start on development and can be advantageous in certain environments. The term is primarily used in scientific and formal contexts.
adjectiveGiving birth to live young that are in the larval stage, especially of certain insects and fish.
- Producing live young in the larval stage.
- Characteristic of certain reproductive strategies in animals.
"The larviparous species of mosquito lays its larvae in still water."
"The larviparous reproduction of some insects allows for immediate larval development."
"Larviparous fish often give birth to free-swimming larvae."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of larviparous
The term 'larviparous' originates from the Latin words 'larva,' meaning 'ghost' or 'mask,' and 'parous,' meaning 'bringing forth' or 'producing.' The term has been used in scientific literature since the 19th century to describe certain reproductive strategies in animals.
Usage notes
Formal or scientific contexts; not commonly used in everyday conversation.