Gastrulas

/ɡæˈstruːləz/ noun

Definition

Plural of gastrula; multiple embryos in the stage of development where they have a hollow, sac-like structure with two layers of cells.

Etymology

Plural form of gastrula, from Modern Latin gastrula, diminutive of Greek gaster 'belly.' The plural form preserves the Latin -ae ending in scientific contexts.

Kelly Says

When scientists study embryology, they often work with dozens of gastrulas at once—watching how hundreds of cells know exactly where to move and what to become is one of biology's greatest mysteries.

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