Sealife guideThe sea life glossaryOur glossaries

Last updated on 05/07/2026 at 10:15 PM

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Description

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Oceania

Définition

A geographic region comprising the islands of the Pacific ocean, including Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia.

Anglais

Océanie

Français

ocellus

Définition

A circular, eye-like marking on an animal's body, often used to deter predators or attract mates.

Anglais

ocelle

Français

ontogenetic metamorphosis

Définition

A developmental transformation in an organism's form, structure, or coloration occurring during its life cycle, typically between juvenile and adult stages.

Anglais

métamorphose ontogénétique

Français

ontogeny

Définition

The complete sequence of developmental stages of an individual organism, from fertilization to adulthood.

Anglais

ontogenèse

Français

osculum

Définition

A large opening in a sponge through which water exits after circulating through its body.

Anglais

oscule

Français

ovigerous

Définition

Carrying and protecting eggs until they hatch.

Anglais

ovigère

Français

oviparous

Définition

Laying eggs that develop and hatch outside the parent's body.

Anglais

ovipare

Français

ovoviparous

Définition

Producing eggs that develop and hatch inside the parent's body, resulting in live birth.

Anglais

ovovipare

Français

ovoviviparous

Définition

Producing eggs that hatch inside the parent's body, so young are born live.

Anglais

ovovivipare

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Photo of the Day

Gorette bleue
(Haemulon sciurus)