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zoea |
1 definition found From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: Zoea \Zo"["e]*a\, n. [NL., fr Gr ? life.] (Zo["o]l.) A peculiar larval stage of certain decapod Crustacea, especially of crabs and certain Anomura. [Written also {zo[ae]a}.] Note: In this stage the anterior part of the body is relatively large and usually bears three or four long spines. The years are conspicuous, and the antenn[ae] and jaws are long, fringed organs used in swimming. The thoracic legs are undeveloped or rudimentary, the abdomen long, slender, and often without appendages. The zo["e]a, after casting its shell, changes to a megalops.