HOLOMETABOLY Meaning and
Definition
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Holometaboly refers to a type of complete metamorphosis seen in certain insects, particularly belonging to the order Holometabola. It is an intricate process in the life cycle of these insects that includes distinct stages of development, marked by drastic morphological changes between each stage. A holistic transformation occurs from an egg to a larval form, followed by a pupal or chrysalis stage, and finally culminating in an adult form.
This unique form of metamorphosis allows for a comprehensive restructuring of the insect's body. The larval stage is typically the feeding and growth phase, during which the insect undergoes several molts to accommodate its increasing size. After reaching a certain growth threshold, the larva enters the pupal stage, during which the body undergoes a complete reorganization and development of adult structures. This stage is usually marked by the formation of a protective casing, such as a chrysalis or pupa, enclosing the developing insect.
Lastly, the adult stage emerges from the pupal case, exhibiting completely different morphological characteristics compared to the larval stage. This transformation may involve significant changes in body shape, wings, appendages, and reproductive organs. Holometabolous insects include diverse groups such as butterflies, beetles, flies, and bees.
Holometaboly is crucial for the survival and propagation of insects, enabling them to adapt to different ecological niches and exploit various food resources throughout their lifecycle.
Common Misspellings for HOLOMETABOLY
- Holometabole
- golometaboly
- bolometaboly
- nolometaboly
- jolometaboly
- uolometaboly
- yolometaboly
- hilometaboly
- hklometaboly
- hllometaboly
- hplometaboly
- h0lometaboly
- h9lometaboly
- hokometaboly
- hopometaboly
- hooometaboly
- holimetaboly
- holkmetaboly
- hollmetaboly
- holpmetaboly
Etymology of HOLOMETABOLY
The word "holometaboly" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "holos" meaning "whole" or "complete", and "metabole" meaning "change" or "transformation". So, "holometaboly" literally means "complete transformation". It is a term used in entomology to describe a type of insect metamorphosis, where the insect undergoes a complete and distinct change throughout its life cycle, including distinct larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Similar spelling words for HOLOMETABOLY
