Ümberkujunemisi

Ümberkujunemisi, also known as metamorphosis, is a biological process by which an animal physically develops after birth or hatching, involving a profound transformation from its larval stage to an adult form. This process is characteristic of insects, amphibians, and some other invertebrates. Metamorphosis is a critical stage in the life cycle of these organisms, allowing for significant changes in body structure, physiology, and behavior.

In insects, metamorphosis typically occurs in four stages: egg, larva (often called a caterpillar or grub), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. The larva feeds and grows, then enters the pupal stage, where it undergoes dramatic changes within a protective casing. During this time, the larva's body is reorganized into the adult form. Finally, the adult insect emerges from the pupa, ready to reproduce and complete its life cycle.

Amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, undergo a simpler form of metamorphosis. After hatching from eggs, the larvae, known as tadpoles, have gills and a tail. Over time, they develop lungs, lose their tails, and their legs and body shape change significantly, transforming into adult amphibians capable of living both in water and on land.

Metamorphosis is a remarkable process that enables organisms to adapt to different environments and lifestyles, showcasing the incredible diversity and resilience of life on Earth.