Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ammocoete

Noun

/ˌæməˈkoʊtiː/

Definition

The larval stage of a lamprey before it matures into an adult.

Examples

The ammocoete spends several years in its larval stage, living in river bottoms.
Young lampreys, known as ammocoetes, can often be found buried in the substrate, filtering food from the water.
Researchers study the growth patterns of ammocoetes to better understand lamprey ecology.

Meaning

Ammocoetes are often found burrowing in sand or silt in freshwater habitats. They feed on organic particles and small organisms while they develop into mature lampreys.