Centrolecithal

/ˌsɛntroʊˈlɛsɪθəl/ adjective

Definition

Describing an egg or embryo where the yolk (nutrient material) is concentrated in the center rather than at one end.

Etymology

From Latin 'centrum' (center) + Greek 'lekithos' (yolk), describing eggs with centrally-positioned yolk.

Kelly Says

Insect eggs are centrolecithal, which is why their embryos develop in a ring around the yolk rather than on top of it—totally different development from chicken eggs!

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