Which type of metamorphosis involves distinct egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages?

The type of metamorphosis that involves distinct egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages is known as complete metamorphosis. This process is characteristic of many insects, such as butterflies, beetles, and bees. It is defined by four distinct life stages, where each stage differs significantly in form and function.

In the egg stage, the insect begins its life cycle, typically laid in an environment suitable for the hatchling. The larva stage follows, where the insect focuses on growth and feeding. This is often when significant changes in size occur. After the larval stage, the insect enters the pupa stage, also known as the chrysalis or cocoon, where it undergoes a transformation, reorganizing its body structure. Finally, it emerges as an adult, which is capable of reproduction and often has wings, enabling it to fulfill different ecological roles compared to previous stages.

This clear separation and transformation between stages in complete metamorphosis distinguish it from simple or gradual metamorphosis, where the changes are more subtle and do not involve a pupal stage, thus lacking the distinct stages seen in complete metamorphosis.