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What are the four stages of complete metamorphosis in Hymenoptera?
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Hymenoptera
An endangered rusty patched bumblebee (Bombus affinis) browsing on a wild bergamot flower.
Insects in the order Hymenoptera (which includes ants, wasps, and bees) undergo holometabolous development, also known as complete metamorphosis. This life cycle consists of four distinct stages:12
- Egg: The initial stage of development.2
- Larva: An immature, often legless or caterpillar-like stage adapted for growth and feeding.23
- Pupa: An inactive, nonfeeding stage during which the insect undergoes a dramatic transformation, breaking down larval tissues and developing adult structures.24
- Adult: The final, sexually mature stage, which is typically winged.21