What is metamorphosis?

Metamorphosis refers to the biological process of transformation that certain animals, particularly insects and amphibians, undergo as they develop from juvenile stages into their adult forms. Specifically, this term is best known in the context of insects, such as butterflies and beetles, as well as amphibians like frogs.

During metamorphosis, an organism undergoes significant changes in body structure and physiology, which often includes several distinct stages, such as egg, larva (or nymph), pupa (in insects), and then adult. For example, the transformation of a caterpillar (larval stage) into a butterfly (adult stage) showcases how metamorphosis allows for adaptations at different life stages, enhancing survival and reproductive success.

The other choices do not capture the transformational aspect of metamorphosis accurately. A change in color pertains to physical appearance rather than structural transformation. An egg-laying process does not inherently involve the significant physical changes that occur during metamorphosis. A regular growth pattern without changes suggests a more linear increase in size or function without the drastic changes that define metamorphosis, which would misrepresent the concept entirely.