Insect Metamorphosis and Insect Attraction | What’s Bugging You?

Explore insect metamorphosis and attraction. Studying insect development from egg to adult provides a strong foundation for introducing many important topics in life science and biology ranging from cell differentiation and metamorphosis to reproduction and other behaviors. Join Entomologist Dr. Art Evans and VPM radio producer Steve Clark as they discuss one of the most spectacular moths found in North America, the Luna moth.

Through the facilitator guide and activities provided, students will learn about the three basic kinds of metamorphosis: none (ametaboly), incomplete (hemimetaboly), and complete (holometaboly). Insect Attraction is part of the life cycle, occurring in the final stage of insect metamorphosis. Insects have evolved many communication strategies and behaviors that rely on their senses of smell, sight, sound, and hearing.

Some species are sexually dimorphic, which means that males and females are readily distinguished from one another by their physical characteristics. The Luna moth is an example. They can also be distinguished as being from the spring brood or the summer brood. With their soft green color and long, flowing tails, these large and distinctive insects are truly a marvel of nature.