Stag beetles undergo which type of metamorphosis?

Stag beetles undergo complete metamorphosis, a developmental process that involves four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. In complete metamorphosis, the larval stage is often quite different in appearance and behavior from the adult stage. For stag beetles, the larvae primarily feed on decaying wood and have a worm-like appearance, while the adult beetles are characterized by their large mandibles and are often found in gardens or forests.

This type of metamorphosis allows for specialized adaptations at each stage, enabling the organism to exploit different ecological niches. For instance, the larvae can consume organic material in decay, while adults can engage in reproduction and other activities. Understanding this developmental process is crucial for recognizing the life cycle of stag beetles and how they interact with their environment throughout different stages of their life. The other metamorphosis types do not accurately describe the development of stag beetles, as their life cycle clearly includes the stage of pupa, which is a defining characteristic of complete metamorphosis.