Definition

A stage in early embryonic development that comes after the blastula, characterized by a hollow structure with two layers of cells that will develop into different tissues.

Example

The gastrula stage is crucial for the proper formation of the embryo's organs and systems.

Conversation

I was reading about embryonic development and came across the term gastrula.

Oh, I think I remember that! It's the stage after the blastula, right?

Exactly! It’s fascinating how it forms the layers of the embryo.

Totally! I love how complex development can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gastrula → It is formed from "gaster" (from Greek "gaster", meaning stomach) and the suffix "-ula" (a diminutive suffix in Latin, meaning small). The word "gastrula" refers to a small structure that develops in the early stages of embryonic development, specifically related to the formation of the stomach.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'gaster' which means stomach, and the suffix '-ula' indicating something small. This helps you remember that a gastrula is a small structure related to the stomach in early development.

Visually Confused Words