Heterometaboly

/ˌhɛtəroʊˈmɛtəbəli/ noun

Definition

The process or condition of undergoing incomplete metamorphosis with gradual bodily changes.

Etymology

From Greek 'hetero-' (different) and 'metabole' (change) with Greek noun suffix '-ia', describing the gradual transformation process.

Kelly Says

The study of heterometaboly reveals that nature has multiple blueprints for growth—some insects choose the 'continuous improvement' model while others do a complete makeover.

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