miracidia
/mɪrəˈsɪdiə/ or /mɪrəˈsɪˈdiə/Definitions
1. noun
The larval stage of certain parasitic flatworms, especially those of the class Trematoda, which are free-swimming and develop into cercariae before infecting a host.
“The aquatic plant provided a habitat for the miracidia of the parasitic flatworm, allowing them to feed and grow before infecting a host.”
2. plural noun
The larvae of certain parasitic flatworms, especially those of the class Trematoda, that are free-swimming and develop into cercariae before infecting a host.
“Miracidia are highly infective and can cause significant damage to aquatic ecosystems.”