Student Article
Student Article: Why Some Creatures Transform
Metamorphosis (noun): The process in which an animal or insect changes its shape or form as it grows.
Amphibian (noun): An animal that can live both in water and on land.
Larvae (noun): The young form of an insect that looks different from the adult.
Gills (noun): Organs that allow fish and some amphibians to breathe underwater.
Hormone (noun): A chemical in the body that controls growth and changes.
We first learn about metamorphosis from stories like "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," where a caterpillar turns into a butterfly. Metamorphosis is a big change in an animal's body.
What animals go through metamorphosis?
Many insects and amphibians go through metamorphosis. For example, flatfish start with two eyes on each side of their body, but one eye moves to the other side as they grow.
Do insects go through metamorphosis?
Insects like butterflies, beetles, and dragonflies go through metamorphosis. They start as larvae, like caterpillars, and change into adults with wings. Some insects, like silverfish, do not change much and look like small adults when they hatch.
What about amphibians?
Frogs and salamanders are amphibians that go through metamorphosis. Frogs start as tadpoles with gills and tails. As they grow, they develop lungs and legs, and their tails disappear. Salamanders also change from having tails for swimming to having legs for walking on land.
How does metamorphosis work?
Metamorphosis happens because of changes in the animal's cells. These changes are controlled by hormones. Insects shed their outer layer to grow, while amphibians change their body parts to live on land.
Why is metamorphosis important?
Metamorphosis helps animals live in different places and eat different foods at different stages of their lives. This reduces competition for food and helps them survive.
© JV Chamary / Our Media
Metamorphosis (noun): The process in which an animal or insect changes its shape or form as it grows.
Amphibian (noun): An animal that can live both in water and on land.
Larvae (noun): The young form of an insect that looks different from the adult.
Gills (noun): Organs that allow fish and some amphibians to breathe underwater.
Hormone (noun): A chemical in the body that controls growth and changes.