Which term describes how insects develop through life stages?

The term "metamorphosis" specifically refers to the process by which insects undergo significant changes throughout their life cycle. Insects typically develop through distinct life stages, which can include egg, larva, pupa, and adult. This process allows insects to adapt to different environments and resources at various stages of their lives.

Metamorphosis is categorized into two main types: complete and incomplete metamorphosis. Complete metamorphosis involves four life stages, while incomplete metamorphosis includes three stages, where the insect gradually changes form without a pupal stage. This definition aligns directly with the described life cycle of insects.

Other terms, such as "transmutation," "evolution," and "transformation," do not specifically address the life stages of insects or their development process. Transmutation generally relates to changing from one form to another but lacks the specific context of insect development. Evolution refers to the broader process of species change over time, and transformation is a more generic term that does not denote the structured life stages found in insect development. Thus, metamorphosis is the accurate term for describing this phenomenon in insects.