chrysalis

A chrysalis is the life stage of butterflies and some other insects in which the larva is transformed into an adult. It is the pupal stage in complete metamorphosis (holometabolism), following the final molt of the larva. In many butterflies, the chrysalis is suspended from a surface by a silk pad and a small hook-like structure called a cremaster, and it is often well camouflaged to resemble leaves or bark.

During the chrysalis stage, the larval tissues are broken down and reorganized into the adult structures, including wings, antennae, and reproductive organs. This transformation occurs through cellular processes of histolysis and histogenesis. The duration of the chrysalis period varies by species and environmental conditions; some chrysalises can endure extended periods and overwinter.

The term chrysalis is typically associated with butterflies, whereas many moths pupate inside cocoons—silken coverings around the pupa. There are exceptions, as some butterfly chrysalides are vivid or metallic, while others resemble bark or leaf litter for camouflage. The concept can be extended to describe the pupal stage of some other insect groups, but the chrysalis is most commonly used for butterfly development.

Etymology derives from Greek chrysallis, meaning gold, reflecting early descriptions that noted golden spots on some chrysalides. Modern chrysalises show a wide range of colors and textures, often matching their surroundings to reduce predation. Examples include the monarch butterfly, whose chrysalis is green with small gold spots, and numerous other species with diverse forms.