0
You visited us 0 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

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

Solution
Verified by Toppr

Metamorphosis is a process by which an animal physically develops after birth or hatching, involving a conspicuous and relatively abrupt change in the animal's body structure through cell growth and differentiation.
There are four stages in the metamorphosis of butterflies and moths: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
  • Stage 1 - Eggs: In the first stage, a female butterfly lays eggs. The eggs are really small and round. About five days after the eggs are laid, tiny worm-like creatures hatch out from the eggs.
  • Stage 2 - Caterpillar (Larva): The second stage is the caterpillar. A caterpillar is sometimes called larva. A caterpillar is a long creature. It looks like a worm. This is the eating and growing stage. A caterpillar grows really fast. Caterpillars shed their skin four or more times while they are growing. A caterpillar shedding its outgrown skin is called moulting.
  • Stage 3 - Chrysalis (Pupa): Stage three is the chrysalis. This is when the caterpillar is done growing. The caterpillar makes a chrysalis. Another name for a chrysalis is a pupa. It is mostly brown or green. It is the same colour as that of the things around it. This is so that other animals cannot see it. This protects them.
  • Stage 4 - Butterly (Adult)): In stage four, the chrysalis opens. Soon, a butterfly comes out.

Was this answer helpful?
2
Similar Questions
Q1
Define the term metamorphosis. Briefly describe the various stages occurring in the life-cycle of a butterfly.
View Solution
Q2
Which of the following stages is necessary in the life cycle of an animal in which complete metamorphosis occurs?
View Solution
Q3
(a) What is the sequence of different phases in cell cycle ?
(b) When does the synthesis of DNA takes place ?
(c) Describe briefly the various stages of cell cycle during the interphase preceding mitosis.
View Solution
Q4
Define DNA Replication. In which phase of cell cycle does replication occur in Eukaryotes ? Describe briefly the mechanism of DNA replication.
View Solution
Q5
How many life-cycle stages does an incomplete metamorphosis have?
View Solution