Which sequence correctly represents the stages in a complete life cycle?

• A. Egg, Nymph, Adult
• B. Egg, Pupa, Adult
• C. Egg, Larva, Pupa, Adult
• D. Egg, Larva, Adult

Answer: (C)

Complete metamorphosis features four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. After hatching, the larva is mainly a feeding and growing stage. The larva then enters the pupal stage, where the body is reorganized into the adult form. Finally, the adult emerges, focused on reproduction and dispersal. This four-stage sequence uniquely represents complete metamorphosis, unlike patterns that skip the larval or pupal stage and instead use a nymph or omit a stage entirely.