dipleurula larva

zoology

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June 25, 2026

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The dipleurula larva is a bilaterally symmetrical larval stage found in echinoderms. It is considered a basic larval type from which more complex echinoderm larvae, such as the bipinnaria and echinopluteus, develop. The name "dipleurula" means "little two sides," referring to the larval form's bilateral symmetry. This larval stage is characterized by a single band of cilia around the body, which aids in movement and feeding. While some sources consider the dipleurula a hypothetical ancestor of echinoderms and chordates, it is also used to describe actual larval echinoderms.12

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echinoderm
Development
…basic larval type called a dipleurula larva, characterized by bilateral symmetry; hence the name, which means “little two sides.” A single band of hairlike projections, or cilia, is found on each side of the body and in front of the mouth and anus. The characteristic larvae found among the living…
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…basic larval type called a dipleurula larva, characterized by bilateral symmetry; hence the name, which means “little two sides.” A single band of hairlike projections, or cilia, is found on each side of the body and in front of the mouth and anus. The characteristic larvae found among the living…
Read More