Entomology is the study of insects. This page provides some basic information on insects. First a quick look at the anatomy of adult insects. Then a short story about the metamorphosis of insects.
Insect anatomy
To learn more about the anatomy, on the different body parts of this insect !!
Metamorphosis of insects
In their development from egg to adult, insects change in form. The different forms are not alike, and this is called metamorphosis. There are two general types of metamorphosis: simple metamorphosis and complete metamorphosis.
Simple metamorphosis
In simple metamorphosis the wings develop externally (outside the body) during the larval stages. The larval stages, which are called nymphs, look very similar to the adult insect. There is no pupal stage.
The figure shows the development from an egg through 5 larval forms to an adult bug.
Complete metamorphosis
In a complete metamorphosis the wings develop internally (inside the body) during the larval stages. The larval stages look quite different from the adult. Between the last larval stage and the adult stage there is a pupal stage which usually is inactive.
The figure shows the development from an egg via the larval stage (caterpillar) and pupa to an adult butterfly or moth.
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Last updated by Hein Bijlmakers: 14 March 2000 bijlmake@citechco.net |
