Question

How many life- cycle stages do an incomplete metamorphosis have
A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6

Answer 1

Hint: Certain animals like insects and amphibians undergo changes during its life cycle. The animal exists in different forms during each stage. There are two types of metamorphosis, such as complete and incomplete.

Complete answer:
During incomplete metamorphosis, the larval stages look morphologically similar to that of the adult. The intermediate stage is called a nymph and is a miniature version of the adult. It is present during the development of several insects such as grasshoppers. Incomplete metamorphosis has three intermediate stages. The different stages are egg, nymph, and finally the adult. The egg hatches into the nymph. A nymph looks morphologically similar to that of the adult but possesses a thinner exoskeleton when compared to that of the adult. The nymph later develops into the adult through a process known as molting.

Considering the other given options:
-Four intermediate stages are commonly found in several insects undergoing complete metamorphosis such as butterflies. Here the intermediate larval stages have no similarity to the adult.
-Five intermediate stages are found during the life cycle of certain amphibians such as frogs. The process is complete metamorphosis.
-Six stages are not present during the life cycle of incomplete metamorphosis.
Therefore, by considering the above given options, the most appropriate option is A. That is, there are three intermediate stages during incomplete metamorphosis.

Note: Compared to incomplete metamorphosis, complete metamorphosis has a distinct larval stage. The larvae are very active and are continuously eating and then reach a dormant stage.