Developmental Biology
Larva
A juvenile form of an animal that differs significantly from the adult, typically occurring in species with metamorphosis. Larvae often occupy different ecological niches than adults.
Biological Context
Larvae are independent organisms, not just small adults. Caterpillars, tadpoles, and maggots are larvae. Larval forms often specialize in growth and feeding while adults specialize in reproduction and dispersal. Marine invertebrates often have planktonic larvae that disperse on ocean currents.
Business Application
Larval business phases: periods focused on growth and resource accumulation before transforming into mature form. Startups in growth mode, companies building capability before commercializing. The larval strategy is: grow now, transform later.