Embryos and larvae

Larvae that hatched from their eggs a few weeks ago look like little monsters. The larvae from animals such as crabs, clams,  sea urchins or sea anemones go through metamorphosis, a radical transformation during which they acquire the characteristics and behavior of their species.

If they survive, that is. These embryos and larvae are easy prey for jellyfish, shrimps or fish.  They provide an abundant source of food, since many species lay millions of eggs in the open sea.

When fertilized, the eggs become embryos and then larvae. After a few weeks of drifting, only a few of the young survive to adulthood. That will be enough to perpetuate the species.