1. Egg: The life cycle begins with a tiny egg laid by a female butterfly on a plant.
2. Larva (Caterpillar): When the egg hatches, a larva, or caterpillar, emerges. Caterpillars spend their time eating and growing. They shed their skin several times as they get bigger.
3. Pupa (Chrysalis): When the caterpillar is fully grown, it forms a pupa, also called a chrysalis. Inside the chrysalis, a remarkable transformation occurs.
4. Adult (Butterfly): Finally, the adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis, with beautiful wings. The adult's main purpose is to reproduce and lay eggs, starting the cycle again.
Here's how this cycle shows the adult organism:
* The adult butterfly is the final stage of the life cycle.
* It's the only stage capable of reproduction, ensuring the continuation of the species.
* The adult butterfly is distinct in appearance from the larval and pupal stages, showcasing a complete metamorphosis.
Other examples:
* Beetles: Beetles also undergo complete metamorphosis, with a larval stage (grub), pupal stage, and an adult beetle.
* Moths: Similar to butterflies, moths undergo complete metamorphosis with a larval stage (caterpillar), pupal stage, and an adult moth.
Let me know if you'd like to learn about the life cycles of other bugs!