Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

What is a key difference between gradual and complete metamorphosis?

1. Gradual metamorphosis has a pupa stage

2. Complete metamorphosis includes three stages

3. Gradual metamorphosis has no pupa stage

4. Both have the same life cycle stages

The correct answer is: Gradual metamorphosis has no pupa stage

A key aspect that distinguishes gradual metamorphosis from complete metamorphosis is the presence or absence of a pupa stage. In gradual metamorphosis, the insect undergoes development through a series of nymphal stages, which resemble smaller versions of the adult but lack wings and reproductive structures. As the nymph matures, it simply sheds its exoskeleton multiple times until it reaches the adult form, without passing through a distinct pupa stage. In contrast, complete metamorphosis involves a more complex developmental process characterized by four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The pupa stage is crucial as it is during this phase that significant transformation occurs, allowing for a complete change in form and function. Understanding this difference is important because it affects not only the biological and ecological characteristics of the species but also implications for pest management and control strategies in agriculture.