Pest Control Technician Practice Exam

What describes insect development that includes the stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult?

1. Incomplete metamorphosis

2. Gradual metamorphosis

3. Complete metamorphosis

4. Transitional metamorphosis

The correct answer is: Complete metamorphosis

The answer identifies the process known as complete metamorphosis, which is a significant developmental cycle in insects. Insects that undergo complete metamorphosis go through four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. In the egg stage, the insect begins its life cycle, typically laid in a protective environment. Once the egg hatches, it enters the larval stage, where it primarily focuses on growth and feeding, often appearing worm-like. After sufficient growth, the larvae enter the pupal stage, where they undergo significant physical changes and development in a protective casing. Finally, the adult stage emerges, marking the fully formed insect capable of reproduction and completing the life cycle. This distinct process contrasts with other forms of metamorphosis, such as incomplete metamorphosis, which typically only involves three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. In complete metamorphosis, the changes that occur during the pupal stage are much more profound, resulting in a complete transformation in the insect's structure and function.