What stages are present in complete metamorphosis?

Complete metamorphosis is a developmental process observed in certain insects where there are four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

In the initial stage, the egg is laid, which eventually hatches into the larval stage. This larva often differs significantly in form and function from the adult, as it primarily focuses on growth and feeding. After sufficient growth, the larva enters the pupa stage, a transformative phase where it undergoes significant physical changes. This pupal stage is relatively inactive compared to the larva, as the insect reorganizes its body structures in preparation for becoming an adult. Finally, upon emerging from the pupal stage, the adult insect is fully formed and capable of reproduction.

This cycle is crucial for many insects, as it enables them to occupy different ecological niches during their life stages. Other options presented do not encompass the full range of transformations seen in complete metamorphosis, as they either include inappropriate terms or omit important stages.