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Definition

noun

The formation of blastula following the morula stage during the embryonic development of an animal.

Supplement

Blastulation is the process following the morula and precedes the gastrulation. It entails cleavage resulting in a blastula consisting of about 128 cells. It is marked by the presence of a blastocoel.

Word origin: from Greek (blastos), meaning "sprout"

See also: blastula