How does a barnacle change from a swimming cyprid larva into an attached adult?

Barnacles are crustaceans that undergo a complex life cycle to transition from a free-swimming cyprid larva to a sessile adult.1

The process occurs as follows:

• Substrate Selection: The nonfeeding cyprid larva uses light, chemical, and tactile stimuli to locate a suitable surface. They are often attracted to established members of their own species.1
• Attachment: The cyprid explores the surface using its first antennae, which adhere via a temporary cement. Once a final location is chosen, glands secrete a permanent cement to anchor the organism.1
• Metamorphosis: Following attachment, the cyprid undergoes a profound metamorphosis. During this transformation, some body parts are lost or modified, while others develop anew. Notably, the cyprid’s six pairs of swimming thoracic limbs are transformed into the feeding appendages known as cirri.1

Once this metamorphosis into a juvenile barnacle is complete, the individual is permanently fixed and can no longer change its location.1