A pupa is a life stage in the development of insects that undergo complete metamorphosis.
Pupa
🐛 What it means
After the larva (caterpillar-like stage) finishes growing, it transforms into a pupa. Inside this stage, the insect is rebuilding its body into an adult form.
🦋 Where you see it
Common insects with a pupal stage:
- Butterflies 🦋
- Moths 🦗
- Beetles 🪲
- Flies 🪰
🔄 Simple life cycle
Egg → Larva → Pupa → Adult
🧠 What happens inside
Even though it looks inactive, inside the pupa:
- The larval body breaks down
- Adult structures (wings, legs, eyes) form
- It’s like a full “reconstruction” phase
🟡 Example
A butterfly pupa is called a chrysalis, while a moth usually forms a cocoon.
If you want, I can show pictures or explain how long different pupae stay in that stage.