Question

Define the term metamorphosis. Briefly describe the various stages occurring in the life-cycle of a butterfly.

Answer 1

Metamorphosis is a rapid and complete transformation from an immature larval life to a sexually adult form involving morphology, function, and habitat changes.

The life cycle of a butterfly:​

The butterfly lays its egg on the leaves of the plants. The new born that comes out of the egg is called a larva or caterpillar. It actively feeds and gains size.​

When the larva stops moving and eating and is called a pupa. It is a resting stage. The pupa is covered by a cocoon. During this stage, it attains the features of adult hood. After attaining adulthood the pupa comes out of the cocoon after breaking it as an adult butterfly.​

​

The stages of development are: egg, larva, pupa, adult.