Definitions

1. noun

A larval stage in the life cycle of certain marine animals, especially a free-swimming larva that is the first stage after hatching, often found in large numbers in the ocean.

“The nauplius stage of the krill’s life cycle is crucial for its population growth and adaptation.”

2. noun

A small, free-swimming crustacean larva, especially the larva of a copepod.

“The nauplius was a tiny crustacean larva, barely visible to the naked eye.”