How Do Flies Turn Into Butterflies?
WouterButterfly metamorphosis is a major event in an insect’s life cycle. Unlike grasshoppers, which undergo a gradual process of change, butterflies undergo a complete metamorphosis. This transformation happens when a butterfly sheds its exoskeleton, which is composed of chitin, and its internal organs begin to develop. There are two main phases in a butterfly’s life cycle: the larva and the pupa. The larva is a worm-like stage of the butterfly’s development. It also gives off pheromones and has a straw-like tongue called a proboscis.
Once the caterpillar emerges from its chrysalis, it begins to feed on flowers and leaves. After several weeks, it can reach a length of two inches. Once it has finished feeding, it develops into a pupa and begins its life cycle as a butterfly. It usually lives for a week or two, although some species may live as long as 18 months. The images on this page are of the life cycle of the black swallowtail on fennel, taken from the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service publication FOR-98, by Thomas G. Barnes.
During their life cycle, flies can only live in temperatures ranging between 60deg F and 108deg F. The ideal temperature for butterflies is 82-100deg F. During warm weather, butterflies may seek out objects with light color. Their wings will also spread in order to absorb heat.
