What is post-larvae?

Post-larvae refer to the stage in the life cycle of certain marine organisms, particularly crustaceans like shrimp, after they have completed their larval development and metamorphosis. During this stage, the organisms transition from a free-swimming larval form to a more juvenile form, resembling the adult but not yet sexually mature. This phase is critical for growth and adaptation to benthic or juvenile habitats. Post-larvae are often studied in aquaculture and fisheries for their role in population dynamics.