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Schematic diagram of the blastula of a frog embyro.

blastula

(genetic biology)

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  • Grammar: noun
    plural:
    blastulae, blastulas
  • Definition: an early developmental stage of an embryo, consisting of a hollow sphere formed by a single layer of cells around a fluid-filled cavity
  • Example:
    1. When cellular migration begins, some cells detach from the blastula and migrate into the hollow cavity inside.

    2. The nervous system initially forms as a groove of cells in the surface of the blastula directly above the gut.
  • Related Word: blastular (adjective)


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