blastodisc
/ˈblæstoʊˌdɪsk/
noun
- A small, disc-shaped area on the yolk of a fertilized egg where the embryo begins to develop.
- Scientists study the blastodisc to understand how cells divide and specialize in early development.
- The blastodisc is visible as a tiny white spot on the surface of the egg yolk.
- In bird eggs, the blastodisc contains the genetic material needed to form the chick.