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Glite Dictionary
holometabolism

holometabolism

9.9
An insect life cycle with four stages: egg, larva, pupa, adult
  • noun
  • /ˌhoʊloʊˈmɛtəˌbɒlɪzəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : holometabolismo
  • Butterflies undergo holometabolism, experiencing four distinct life stages from egg to adult.

Examples

  • The process of holometabolism distinguishes some insect orders from those with incomplete metamorphosis.

  • The holometabolism process is fascinating to study.

  • Beetles are an example of insects that develop through holometabolism.

  • Many insects undergo holometabolism during their life cycle.

  • The butterfly undergoes holometabolism, transforming from an egg to a larva, then a pupa, and finally emerging as an adult.

  • In insects like beetles and moths, holometabolism is essential for their life cycle, featuring a complete metamorphosis.

  • Scientists study holometabolism to understand how insects develop through distinct stages, including larval and pupal forms.

Synonyms

holometaboly
vsholometabolism
  • Specialized
9.9

A type of insect life cycle with separate larva, pupa and adult stages

is an alternative scientific term with the identical developmental meaning

Surface Forms

holometabolism singular
holometabolisms plural

Morphology

holometabolism = metabolism (semi-transparent) = holo + metabolism

The prefix 'holo-' means 'whole' or 'entire', and the meaning 'complete metamorphosis' is somewhat guessable but specialized.

Etymology

Holometabolism comes from Greek parts holo- meaning 'whole' and metamorphosis meaning 'change of form'. It describes insects that go through a 'whole change' from egg to larva to pupa to adult, so it means complete metamorphosis.