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chrysalides

Chrysalides are the pupal stage in the life cycles of butterflies and, in some species, moths. They form from the final caterpillar molt and precede the emergence of the adult. In most butterflies, the chrysalis is a hard, shield-like casing that is usually attached to a surface by a silk pad and, in many species, by a silk girdle around the middle. Colors range from green or brown to patterned designs, often providing camouflage; metallic spots occur in some species.

Many moths do not form a free-standing chrysalis; instead the pupa develops inside a cocoon or remains

Inside the chrysalis, larval tissues are broken down and reorganized into the adult's organs, wings, legs, and

Pupation provides protection during a vulnerable stage and can influence maturation timing, as well as dispersal

naked
in
soil
or
leaf
litter.
reproductive
structures.
This
process
constitutes
complete
metamorphosis
(holometabolism).
The
duration
of
the
chrysalis
stage
varies
by
species
and
climate;
some
species
overwinter
as
chrysalides
(diapause).
and
mate
finding
in
the
adult.