Definition

A small, free-swimming larva that is typically flat and has tiny hair-like structures called cilia, found in certain marine animals like jellyfish and corals.

Example

The planula eventually settles on the ocean floor to develop into a polyp.

Conversation

Did you know that a planula is actually the larval stage of some sea creatures?

Really? I had no idea they started out like that!

Yeah, they’re free-swimming and pretty interesting to learn about.

That’s cool! I love learning about marine life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Planula → It is formed from "planus" (meaning flat or level) and the diminutive suffix "-ula" (meaning small). The word "planula" refers to a small, flat larval stage in certain aquatic organisms, particularly cnidarians.

Memory Tip

Think of a small, flat shape ('planus') when you picture a planula, which is a tiny larval form.

Visually Confused Words