Which metamorphosis type is characteristic of butterflies and moths?

Butterflies and moths undergo complete metamorphosis, which is a distinct developmental process characterized by four distinct life stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis or cocoon), and adult (butterfly or moth). This type of metamorphosis allows for significant changes in body structure and function within these stages. For instance, the caterpillar is primarily focused on feeding and growth, while the pupa stage involves a remarkable transformation where the larval structures are broken down and reformed into the adult form.

The advantages of complete metamorphosis include reduced competition between life stages (as larvae and adults often occupy different ecological niches), which can lead to more efficient resource use and survival strategies. The dramatic physical changes also allow the adult forms to exploit different food sources, further enhancing their adaptability. This process sets complete metamorphosis apart from other types such as gradual metamorphosis and incomplete metamorphosis, which do not involve such extensive transformation or the distinct pupa stage.