Metamorphosis is a process of major change in form or structure during development, particularly in insects. Insects undergo either holometabolous or hemimetabolous metamorphosis. Holometabolous insects, such as beetles, moths, butterflies, and flies, have a life cycle that consists of an egg, larva, pupa, and adult stage. Hemimetabolous insects, such as grasshoppers, mantids, and dragonflies, go through gradual changes as they grow into adults. Metamorphosis plays a crucial role in the success of insects, as it allows them to exploit different habitats and food resources. Immature insects, like caterpillars and grubs, are highly specialized for feeding and avoiding predators. Overall, metamorphosis is a key element in the growth, adaptation, and evolution of insects.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metamorphosis | Change in form or structure during development | More efficient adaptation and evolution | Survival and successful reproduction |
| Holometabolous | Complete metamorphosis | Insects exploit different habitats and food resources | Adaptation and evolution |
| Hemimetabolous | Incomplete metamorphosis | Gradual changes in form as insects grow | Feeding habits and survival |
| Caterpillars, Grubs, Maggots | Different stages of holometabolous larvae | More efficient eating and protection mechanisms | Avoiding predation and finding food |
| Nymphs, hoppers, mudeyes | Different stages of hemimetabolous insects | Nymphs resemble adults but with some differences | Feeding habits and survival |