1. The opening in an embryo that forms during early development and gives rise to the mouth and anus in most animals.
Usage: biology; embryology

Examples

• During gastrulation, the blastopore appears as a small opening on the surface of the embryo.
• In some organisms, the blastopore develops into the mouth, while in others it becomes the anus.
• The formation of the blastopore marks a critical stage in embryonic development.
• Scientists study the blastopore to understand how body plans are established in different species.
• The position and fate of the blastopore vary significantly across animal phyla.