winter buds

Statoblast \Stat"o*blast\ (st[a^]t"[-o]*bl[a^]st), n. [Gr.
   stato`s standing (i. e., remaining) + -blast.] (Zool.)
   One of a peculiar kind of internal buds, or germs, produced
   in the interior of certain Bryozoa and sponges, especially in
   the fresh-water species; -- also called {winter buds}.
   [1913 Webster]

   Note: They are protected by a firm covering, and are usually
         destined to perpetuate the species during the winter
         season. They burst open and develop in the spring. In
         some fresh-water sponges they serve to preserve the
         species during the dry season. See Illust. under
         {Phylactolaemata}.
         [1913 Webster]