Question

What is metamorphosis?
A. Process of transforming a larva into an adult
B. Process of transforming a pupa into an adult
C. Process of modification
D. Process of regeneration

Answer 1

Metamorphosis can be defined as a biological process in which the animal develops physically after birth or hatching. It involves a very abrupt change in the animal’s body structure via cell differentiation and growth.

Complete Answer:
Let us analyse the options to find the correct answer.

Option A: Metamorphosis is defined as a biological process involving an abrupt change in the animal's body structure due to cell growth and differentiation. The animals that undergo metamorphosis are called metamorphoses. During metamorphosis, developmental processes are activated by specific hormones.
Examples: butterflies, moths, frogs, toads, salamanders etc. Metamorphosis cycle includes four stages - Egg, Larva, Pupa, and Adult. Therefore, this is the correct option.

Option B: Pupa is the stage of undergoing transformation between the immature and mature stage. It develops from the larva after a certain period of time. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option C: Process of modification is seen in certain plants during their growth or in animals during their secondary growth certain modification can be seen in their body structure. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Option D: Process of regeneration is the ability to regain the lost part of the body which is commonly seen in starfish, Planaria. Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Thus, the correct option is A Process of transforming a larva into an adult.

Note: Metamorphosis is also seen in frogs. In frogs, metamorphosis is controlled by a hormone called thyroxine which is produced by the thyroid gland. The secretion of thyroxine needs iodine, and if enough iodine is not present it leads to low production of thyroxine and thereby retarding the growth of larva into an adult frog.