What type of metamorphosis is defined as having a larval stage and a pupal stage?

The type of metamorphosis that includes a larval stage followed by a pupal stage is known as complete metamorphosis. This process allows insects to undergo significant changes from one life stage to the next.

In complete metamorphosis, there are four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larval stage is typically when the insect grows and feeds, often looking quite different from the adult form. After sufficient growth, the insect enters the pupal stage, where it undergoes a transformation during which its body structures are reorganized to develop into the adult form, also called a imago. The final stage is the emergence of the adult insect, which is usually capable of reproduction.

Understanding complete metamorphosis is crucial in the field of pest control because it influences the timing and methods for managing different life stages of harmful insects. For instance, knowing that larvae may be the feeding stage can dictate when to apply certain pesticides effectively. This distinguishes complete metamorphosis from other forms of metamorphosis, such as gradual or incomplete metamorphosis, which do not include a pupal stage and have fewer life stages undergoing transformation.