Question 1 a. What is the difference between incomplete metamorphosis and gradual metamorphosis? b. What are examples of insects that go through incomplete metamorphosis C. What are examples of insects that go through gradual metamorphosis?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
a. Difference between Incomplete Metamorphosis and Gradual Metamorphosis
Incomplete Metamorphosis: This type of metamorphosis involves three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Insects that undergo incomplete metamorphosis do not have a pupal stage. The nymphs look like smaller versions of the adult insect, and they gradually grow into their adult form through successive molts.
Gradual Metamorphosis: The term “gradual metamorphosis” is often used interchangeably with “incomplete metamorphosis” in some contexts, as they both describe a development process without a pupal stage. However, some sources may refer to “gradual metamorphosis” to emphasize the gradual physical changes that occur over time, typically with intermediate stages appearing progressively closer to the adult form.
In essence, both processes involve the gradual transition from nymph to adult without a distinct pupal stage, but “incomplete” is the more common and widely accepted term.
b. Examples of Insects that Go Through Incomplete Metamorphosis
Insects that undergo incomplete metamorphosis include:
- Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers start life as eggs, then hatch into nymphs that resemble small adults without wings. After several molts, they develop into adults with wings.
- Cockroaches: These insects hatch from eggs as nymphs and undergo several molts before reaching the adult stage.
- Dragonflies: Dragonfly nymphs live in water and undergo several molts before emerging as adult dragonflies.
- Termites: Termite nymphs resemble miniature adults and develop into workers, soldiers, or reproductives after molting.
c. Examples of Insects that Go Through Gradual Metamorphosis
Insects that undergo gradual metamorphosis are essentially the same as those that undergo incomplete metamorphosis. Examples include:
- Grasshoppers
- Cockroaches
- Termites
- Dragonflies
Explanation
Metamorphosis is the process by which an insect changes from its juvenile form to an adult form. Insects can undergo incomplete metamorphosis or gradual metamorphosis, which involves a series of molts, each bringing them closer to the adult form. Both processes lack a pupal stage, distinguishing them from insects that go through complete metamorphosis (which includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages). The lack of a pupal stage means that these insects grow continuously, becoming more similar to adults with each molt. This method of development allows the insect to adapt to its environment progressively.