Blastulae – Definition & Meaning

Blastulae, also known as blastulas, are a type of early-stage embryonic development found in many animals. This article will explore the definition and meaning of blastulae, as well as their origin and associations in different dictionaries.

Definitions

Blastulae are spherical or cup-shaped structures that form during embryonic development. They are typically composed of a single layer of cells, known as the blastoderm, that surrounds a fluid-filled cavity called the blastocoel.

Origin

The term “blastula” comes from the Greek word blastos, meaning “sprout” or “germ.” The concept of the blastula was first introduced by German embryologist Karl Ernst von Baer in the 19th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a blastula is “a hollow ball of cells that forms the earliest stage of the embryo in many animals and from which the embryo begins to differentiate.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a blastula as “a stage in the development of an embryo, consisting of a hollow ball of cells.”

Associations

Blastulae are associated with the early stages of embryonic development, specifically the blastocyst stage in mammals. They are also found in many other animal phyla, including echinoderms, mollusks, and arthropods.

Synonyms

Synonyms for blastulae include blastocysts, blastodiscs, and blastomeres.

Antonyms

Antonyms for blastulae include more advanced stages of embryonic development, such as gastrulae and neurulae.

The same root words

Words with the same root as blastulae include blastoderm, blastomere, and blastocyst.

Example Sentences

1. The blastula is a critical stage in embryonic development, as it marks the beginning of differentiation.
2. The blastocoel of the blastula provides a space for the developing embryo to grow.
3. The blastula of a sea urchin looks very different from the blastula of a bird or mammal.
4. Scientists are studying the blastomeres of blastulae to better understand the early stages of development.
5. The blastula stage is followed by the gastrula stage, during which the embryo begins to form distinct layers.