University of Central Florida (UCF) BSC1005 Biological Principles Practice Exam 3

Organisms that undergo metamorphosis are characterized by experiencing significant changes in their form and structure throughout their life cycle. This transformation typically involves multiple developmental stages, each with distinct physical and physiological characteristics. For example, a caterpillar (the larval stage of a butterfly) looks completely different from its adult form, which is the butterfly. Metamorphosis may also include changes in habitat and lifestyle, as many organisms transition from aquatic larval stages to terrestrial adult forms, or vice versa. This process is crucial for their development and allows them to adapt to varying ecological niches throughout their life cycles.