The process by which an animal sheds its outer covering, such as skin, feathers, fur, or exoskeleton, to allow for growth or seasonal changes. This process is essential for growth in animals with rigid external coverings.
From Latin 'mutare' meaning to change, through Old English 'mutian.' The word evolved to specifically describe the periodic shedding of external coverings, reflecting the dramatic transformation animals undergo during this process.
Molting is like getting a completely new outfit that's perfectly tailored - arthropods literally climb out of their old skin like taking off a tight suit! During molting, animals are incredibly vulnerable and many species become reclusive or stop eating entirely.
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