pupa noun, plural pupae or pupas - in holometabolous insects (those showing complete metamorphosis), the third life stage. A pupa is normally not able to move (though some flex in place) and does not feed. This is the transformative stage between larva and imago (adult). The verb pupate means to form a pupa, and the process is called pupation.

Some examples of pupae:

See Also

egg (embryo)

larva

pupa (chrysalis, cocoon)

imago (adult)

metamorphosis

Print References

Gordh, A Dictionary of Entomology, p. 755 (1)

Internet References

Jardine's Dictionary of Entomology

Works Cited

1.	A Dictionary of Entomology George Gordh, David H. Headrick. 2003. CABI Publishing.

Contributed by Cotinis on 24 May, 2007 - 8:22pm
Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset, Chuck Entz
Last updated 21 April, 2011 - 3:15pm

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