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Larvae Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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larvae

[ˈlɑːrviː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological development

Larvae are the immature forms of an insect or other animal that undergoes metamorphosis. They often differ significantly in appearance and habitat from the adult forms. In many species, larvae serve as a stage of growth, feeding primarily to accumulate energy for their transformation. Common examples of larvae include caterpillars, maggots, and tadpoles, which will eventually develop into their respective adult forms.

Synonyms

caterpillar, grub, nymph, pupa.

Examples of usage

  • The caterpillar is the larval stage of the butterfly.
  • Maggots develop from larvae that hatch from eggs laid on decaying matter.
  • Tadpoles are aquatic larvae that eventually metamorphose into frogs.
  • Some species of beetles have a distinct larval form called a grub.
  • The larvae of certain species can be harmful to crops and gardens.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Most insects undergo a process called metamorphosis, where they change from larvae to pupae and then into adults.
  • Larvae often have high nutrient requirements, leading them to consume a lot of food to support their transformation.

Environmental Impact

  • Certain larvae, like caterpillars, are important for ecosystems as they serve as a food source for birds and other predators.
  • Some larvae help decompose organic matter, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling within their habitats.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, insect larvae are considered delicacies; they are used in dishes across Asia, Africa, and South America.
  • Children often study larvae in school to learn about growth cycles and ecosystems through hands-on experiments.

Interesting Species

  • Butterfly larvae, known as caterpillars, can consume up to 27,000 times their body weight before they transform into butterflies.
  • Some species, like the mosquito larva, are aquatic and breathe air through a siphon, making them unique among their peers.

Origin of 'larvae'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'larvae' comes from Latin, meaning 'ghost' or 'mask,' referring to their different appearance than adult insects.
  • In Latin, 'larva' also means 'a mask,' likening the larval stage to an initial disguise before insects transform.

The term 'larvae' originates from the Latin word 'larva', which means 'ghost' or 'mask'. This term was used in the early 17th century by naturalists to describe the immature forms of insects, particularly those that underwent metamorphosis. The use of 'larvae' was first recorded in scientific literature as biology began to gain prominence as a field of study. The plural form 'larvae' is derived from the Latin plural ending, signifying the multiple immature forms of various organisms. Over time, the concept of larvae has expanded to include the early developmental stages of other animals, including amphibians and some marine species. The classification of larvae has also played a significant role in the understanding of life cycles and ecological relationships within ecosystems.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,522 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.