What type of metabolism does a luna moth exhibit?

The luna moth exhibits holometabolous metabolism, which is characterized by a complete metamorphosis involving four distinct stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (moth). This type of life cycle allows for significant changes in form and function at each stage, enabling the organism to adapt to different environments and lifestyles throughout its development. In the case of the luna moth, the larval stage focuses on growth and feeding, while the pupal stage allows for transformation into the adult phase where reproduction occurs. This complete metamorphosis is a hallmark of many species within the order Lepidoptera, which includes moths and butterflies, making holometabolous metabolism a defining trait of the luna moth.