Summary
Dramatic transformation during development, complete in butterflies and gradual in grasshoppers.
In depth
Complete (holometabolous) metamorphosis includes larva, pupa and adult (butterflies, beetles, flies), reducing competition between stages. Incomplete (hemimetabolous) has nymphs resembling adults. Controlled by ecdysone and juvenile hormone.
Metamorphosis reduces competition between juveniles and adults. It is hormonally controlled. Some insects skip stages.
Key idea: complete metamorphosis has four stages: egg, larva, pupa, adult.
Frequently asked questions
What is Metamorphosis?
Dramatic transformation during development, complete in butterflies and gradual in grasshoppers.
Which area of biology covers Metamorphosis, and how advanced is it?
Metamorphosis is one of the 53 topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Animal Symmetry, Marsupials and Monotremes, Animal Migration.
Can you give an example of Metamorphosis?
Caterpillars rebuild their bodies in the pupa.
What should I learn before Metamorphosis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity first, such as Animal Kingdom, Vertebrates and Invertebrates, Sponges, then return to Metamorphosis. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Metamorphosis?
The closest topics to Metamorphosis are Animal Symmetry, Marsupials and Monotremes, Animal Migration, Arthropods. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Metamorphosis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Metamorphosis. To practise the whole of Zoology & Animal Diversity, use the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz.
How is Metamorphosis different from Animal Symmetry?
Metamorphosis: Dramatic transformation during development, complete in butterflies and gradual in grasshoppers. Animal Symmetry: Animals show radial, bilateral or no symmetry, which relates to their lifestyle and movement. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Metamorphosis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Animal Symmetry and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.