pupa, plural pupae or pupas, life stage in the development of insects exhibiting complete metamorphosis that occurs between the larval and adult stages (imago). During pupation, larval structures break down, and adult structures such as wings appear for the first time.

What happens in the pupa stage?

The metamorphosis from a caterpillar into a butterfly occurs during the pupa stage. During this stage, the caterpillar's old body dies and a new body forms inside a protective shell known as a chrysalis. Moth caterpillars and many other insect larvae spin silk coverings for the chrysalis.

What is a pupa in butterfly?

The pupa of butterflies is also called a chrysalis. ... They will become the legs, wings, eyes and other parts of the adult butterfly. Many of the original larva cells will provide energy for these growing adult cells.