neotenic
/ˌniːəˈtɛnɪk/
adjective
- Relating to or characterized by neoteny, the retention of juvenile features in an adult animal or plant.
- Axolotls are a well-known neotenic species, keeping their gills and larval appearance throughout life.
- Some scientists study neotenic traits in humans, such as our large brains and flat faces.
- The neotenic features of certain salamanders allow them to reproduce while still looking like larvae.
Synonyms