What type of metamorphosis is exhibited by insects like wasps and butterflies?

Insects such as wasps and butterflies display complete metamorphosis, which is characterized by four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. This transformative process allows these insects to undergo significant changes in their form and function as they develop from one stage to another.

During the larval stage, insects like butterflies are caterpillars, which primarily focus on feeding and growing. After reaching a certain size, they enter the pupal stage, where they undergo a remarkable transformation inside a chrysalis or cocoon. This stage is crucial, as the body structures are reorganized to prepare for the adult phase, enabling them to adopt their final form as flying insects.

Complete metamorphosis is beneficial for the survival and adaptability of these species, as it allows different life stages to occupy varying ecological niches—larvae may feed on different resources compared to adults, reducing competition for food and habitat. This adaptation greatly enhances their chances of survival and reproduction in diverse environments.

The other forms of metamorphosis cited, such as incomplete metamorphosis, involve fewer transformation stages and maintain more consistent forms throughout development, which does not apply to the life cycle of wasps and butterflies.