Question

The process of conversion of a small cockroach into an adult cockroach is called as
A. Moulting
B. Metamorphosis
C. Ecdysis
D. Transformation

Answer 1

The transformation or conversion takes place for developing a small cockroach to adult cockroach. It is defined by a particular term that comes from a Geek word.

Complete answer:
The word metamorphosis derives from a Greek word that means transformation or transforming. Metamorphosis is the progressive biological developmental process that can be characterized by the process of cell division, differentiation, and maturation. It includes morphological as well as genetic changes. The adult stages are more advanced and mature than the larval stages in case of normal metamorphosis or progressive metamorphosis. The life cycle of cockroach has three stages of metamorphosis – the egg, the nymph, and the adult.
So, the correct answer is option B, i.e., Metamorphosis
Additional information:
Most of the animals of the earth show progressive metamorphosis. But some animals show retrogressive metamorphosis which means the larval stage of some animals is more advanced than the adult stages. Retrogressive metamorphosis can be defined as degenerative changes where an active larva transforms into a sedentary adult. For example, in Urochordata, the notochord is present only in the larval tail. In the adult stages of their life, the tail and nervous system are reduced and degenerate. This happens due to the sedentary nature of the adult. Some examples of Urochordata animals are Ascidia, Salpa, Doliolum.

Note: Moulting can be defined as the shedding of old feathers, hair, or skin and making a way for new growth of feathers, hairs and skin. Ecdysis is synonymous with moulting. Transformation is a broad term but metamorphosis is a specific term that is used to define the chronological changes of larval animals to form adults.