change in form and structure from embryo to adult stage. In insects, metamorphosis from egg to adult stages may be absent (Apterygota), partial (Exopterygota) or complete (Endopterygota). When metamorphosis from hatchlings to adults is ametabolous (or hemimetabolous: with relatively slight changes), the young are called nymphs. The holometabolous transformation allows larval (feeding) and adults (reproductive) stages to differentiate for divergent functions and habitats. The resting stages that make the differentiation possible are the prepupal and pupal stages.

Alternative form for metamorphosis : metamorphose.