See Also: pupa(medicine)
pupa(dictionary)
pupa(encyclopedia)
pupa(dictionary)
semi pupa(medicine)

pupa (sh)




Inactive, nonfeeding stage in the life of insects that undergo complete metamorphosis.

In a protective covering (cocoon or chrysalis), the larva is transformed into an adult. During pupation, a process controlled by hormones, larval structures break down and adult structures form; wings appear for the first time. The adult emerges either by splitting the pupal skin and chewing its way out or by secreting a fluid that softens the cocoon.