What life cycle stage is characterized by complete metamorphosis?

The life cycle stage characterized by complete metamorphosis is accurately represented by the sequence that includes the stages of Egg, Larva, Pupa, and Adult. Complete metamorphosis, also known as holometabolism, involves four distinct life stages that fundamentally differ in form, function, and habitat.

In this process, the organism starts as an egg, which hatches into the larval stage, commonly known for its growth and feeding. The larva undergoes substantial changes as it prepares for the transition to the pupal stage, where it enters a transformative process. During the pupal stage, the organism does not feed and undergoes significant internal reorganization. Finally, this stage culminates in the emergence of the adult form, which is typically the reproductive stage of the organism.

This comprehensive change in form and function stands in contrast to incomplete metamorphosis, where the life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages without a pupal phase. Incomplete metamorphosis results in nymphs that generally resemble smaller versions of adults and do not undergo the dramatic transformations seen in organisms with complete metamorphosis. Thus, the correct answer highlights the unique and defining characteristic of complete metamorphosis through its clear and structured life cycle stages.