What is an example of an insect that undergoes no metamorphosis?

The correct answer, Silverfish, is an example of an insect that undergoes no metamorphosis, which is also referred to as ametabolism. Insects that do not undergo metamorphosis, like silverfish, are characterized by their simplistic life cycle, in which the young resemble miniature adults and gradually grow larger rather than transforming through distinct life stages such as egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

Silverfish are primitive insects that belong to the order Zygentoma. They emerge from eggs as nymphs that look very similar to the adult form and continue to grow, shedding their exoskeletons several times until they reach maturity. This lack of distinct life stages sets them apart from insects that experience more complex transformations.

In contrast, termites, beetles, and butterflies all undergo some form of metamorphosis. Termites have a more complex life cycle that includes a caste system, and they undergo partial metamorphosis (hemimetabolism). Beetles go through complete metamorphosis (holometabolism), which involves a distinct larval stage before ultimately becoming adults. Butterflies also undergo complete metamorphosis, with distinct stages including caterpillar (larva) and pupa (chrysalis) before emerging as adults