hemolymph
/ˈhiːməˌlɪmf/
noun
- A fluid in invertebrates (such as insects, spiders, and crustaceans) that is similar to blood and lymph in vertebrates; it circulates through the body and carries nutrients, waste, and immune cells.
- Scientists study insect hemolymph to understand how they fight infections.
- When a crab is injured, its hemolymph clots to prevent fluid loss.
- In grasshoppers, hemolymph does not carry oxygen but helps distribute nutrients.