What type of metamorphosis do mosquitoes undergo?

Mosquitoes undergo complete metamorphosis, which is characterized by four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. In this process, there is a significant transformation during the pupal stage, where the larvae develop into fully formed adults. This type of metamorphosis allows for a greater degree of specialization in the different life stages; for instance, larvae live in water and are adapted to consume organic material, while adults are typically aerial and focus on reproduction.

In complete metamorphosis, the changes that occur between each stage are dramatic, and the organisms look entirely different in the adult form compared to the larval stage. This biological method supports a more effective life cycle by enabling the larvae and adults to occupy different ecological niches, reducing direct competition for resources. This adaptability is key to the success of mosquitoes as a species, allowing them to thrive in various environments.