The word metamorphosis is derived from the
Greek words meta, meaning beyond, and morphe, meaning change. 

All insects develop from egg to adult through the process of metamorphosis.  Insect life stages are timed to fit with seasonal cycles.

Insects have survived through 350 million years of climate and habitat changes using many strategies.  Metamorphosis is a highly

effective survival strategy for all insects on earth.

There are two different forms of metamorphosis.  Complete metamorphosis is a 4 stage process that includes the stages of egg, larva, pupa and

adult.

Examples of insects that progress through  complete metamorphosis include butterflies, moths, bees, wasps, ants,

beetles and flies.

Larvae can be described as maggots, grubs and caterpillars.  This is the feeding stage.

The pupa can be described as a chrysalis or

cocoon.  This is the transformation to the adult insect stage.

Simple Metamorphosis is also known as incomplete or gradual metamorphosis. It

consists of 3 stages including egg, nymph and adult.  The growing nymph molts several times shedding its exoskeleton until it develops into a mature adult insect. 

Examples of insects that progress through simple metamorphosis are grasshoppers, dragonflies, damselflies, crickets and cicadas.

Metamorphosis cannot occur without 
insect communication. 

Insects communicate with sight and light. 

Fireflies luminate the darkness with flashing

lights in specific patterns to send messages

and attract mates.

Insects such as night flying moths communicate via pheromones.  These communication scent messages are received through their antennae.