paedogenesis
/ˌpidəˈdʒɛnəsɪs/
noun
- Reproduction by an organism that is still in a larval or juvenile stage, especially in certain insects and amphibians.
- The axolotl is a famous example of paedogenesis in amphibians.
- Scientists study paedogenesis to understand evolutionary development.
- Paedogenesis allows some insects to reproduce without reaching adulthood.