Georgia Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

What type of metamorphosis involves distinct life stages such as egg, larva, pupa, and adult?

1. Simple Metamorphosis

2. Complete Metamorphosis

3. Gradual Metamorphosis

4. Reverse Metamorphosis

The correct answer is: Complete Metamorphosis

Complete metamorphosis is characterized by the distinct and separate life stages of an insect's lifecycle, which include egg, larva, pupa, and adult. This process allows for significant changes in form and function among the different stages. In the initial stage, the egg hatches into a larva, which typically looks very different from the adult and may have a primary function of feeding and growing. After the larval stage, the insect enters the pupa stage, where it undergoes a transformation. This stage involves a complex reorganization of tissues and structures, allowing the organism to emerge as an entirely different adult with a new lifestyle, often equipped with wings if it’s a type of insect that can fly. This contrast with other forms of metamorphosis is crucial. Simple or gradual metamorphosis, for instance, involves fewer and less distinct stages, primarily just an egg, nymph, and adult, with nymphs often resembling small versions of the adult. Reverse metamorphosis is not a standard classification and does not pertain to common developmental strategies in insects. Thus, complete metamorphosis is the correct answer due to its clear delineation between the stages involved in the lifecycle of certain insects.