Entomology for Beginners

Entomology is the study of insects. This page provides some basic information on insects. First a quick look at the anatomy of adult insects. Then a short story about the metamorphosis of insects.

Insect anatomy

To learn more about the anatomy, click on the different body parts of this insect !!

Metamorphosis of insects

In their development from egg to adult, insects change in form. The different instars are not alike, which is called metamorphosis. There are two general types of metamorphosis: simple metamorphosis and complete metamorphosis.

Simple metamorphosis

In simple metamorphosis the wings develop externally during the larval stages. The larval stages, which are called nymphs, look very similar to the adult insect. There is no pupal stage.

The figure shows the development from an egg via 5 larval instars to an adult bug.

Complete metamorphosis

In a complete metamorphosis the wings develop internally during the larval stages. The larval stages look quite different from the adult. Between the last larval stage and the adult stage there is a pupal stage which usually is inactive.

The figure shows the development from an egg via the larval stage (caterpillar) and pupa to an adult butterfly or moth.