vormimuuttuma

Vormimuuttuma, 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 and amphibians, and it is a key feature of their life cycles.

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 significant changes, including the formation of adult structures such as wings and reproductive organs. Finally, the adult insect emerges from the pupa.

Amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, also undergo metamorphosis. After hatching from eggs, the tadpoles undergo a series of changes, including the development of lungs, the loss of their tails, and the appearance of limbs. This transformation allows them to transition from an aquatic to a terrestrial lifestyle.

Metamorphosis is a critical aspect of the life cycle of many organisms, enabling them to adapt to different environments and ecological niches. It is a well-studied phenomenon in biology, providing insights into the mechanisms of growth, development, and evolution.