Metamorphosis extract

摘要

There are two distinct types of metamorphosis: hemimetabolous (incomplete letamorphosis) and holometabolouscomplete metamorphosis). Hemimetabolous insects such as crickets, mantids and bugs resemble the adult form throughout their lives. In these species the young are called nymphs and each moult brings them closer to their adult morphology. Conversely, the young of holometabolous insects, called larvae, look nothing like their adult form. These insects, which include butterflies, ants, beetles and flies, often resemble little more than hungry bags, but transform into a breathtaking variety of body shapes and colours.