glochidium

English

Etymology

From Ancient Greek γλωχίς (glōkhís, “barb of an arrow”) + -idium.

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.