glochidium

English

Etymology

Latin [Term?], from Ancient Greek γλωχίς (glōkhís, “barb of an arrow”).

Noun

glochidium (plural glochidia)

1. (zoology) The larva or young of the mussel.

   Glochidia were once believed to be parasites on the gills of the parents.

2. (botany) A glochid, or cactus spine.