From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
From Ancient Greek γλωχίς (glōkhís, “barb of an arrow”) + -idium.
glochidium (plural glochidia)
- (zoology) The larva or young of the mussel.
Glochidia were once believed to be parasites on the gills of the parents.
- (botany) A glochid, or cactus spine.
