Definition
oothecae
noun
- Plural of ootheca; egg cases or capsules produced by certain insects, mollusks, and other invertebrates, typically containing multiple eggs.
Usage: biology; plural form; technical term
Examples
- The cockroach deposits oothecae in protected crevices to ensure her offspring's survival.
- Scientists examined the oothecae under a microscope to count the developing embryos.
- Mantis oothecae are often found attached to branches and twigs in gardens.
- The oothecae of certain squid species are anchored to the ocean floor.
- Identifying different oothecae helps entomologists classify insect species.