mesofauna

noun

meso·​fauna
"+
: very small invertebrate animals (such as mites, nematodes, or centipedes) that are usually .1 mm to 2 mm (.004 to .08 inch) in length

Note: The terms macrofauna , mesofauna, and microfauna are used especially in describing those organisms living in or on soil or benthic sediment.

compare meiofauna
mesofaunal adjective
mesofaunal composition

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from mes- + fauna

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near mesofauna

Cite this Entry

“Mesofauna.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mesofauna. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!