Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): Holometabolous insects have complete metamorphosis and lack pupal stage in their development
Statement (II): Hemietabolous insects have incomplete metamorphosis with pupal stage in their development
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct

Hint:

To remember: - Holometabolous = Larva $\rightarrow$ Pupa $\rightarrow$ Adult (Pupa is present).
- Hemimetabolous = Nymph $\rightarrow$ Adult (Pupa is absent).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Insects are classified into groups based on their metamorphic development: ametabolous (no metamorphosis), hemimetabolous (incomplete metamorphosis), and holometabolous (complete metamorphosis).
Detailed Explanation:
- Analysis of Statement (I): Holometabolous insects undergo complete metamorphosis.
Their life cycle consists of four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
The pupal stage is a defining characteristic of this group, during which extensive tissue reorganization occurs.
Therefore, stating that holometabolous insects lack a pupal stage is incorrect.
- Analysis of Statement (II): Hemimetabolous insects undergo incomplete or gradual metamorphosis.
Their life cycle consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
They do not have a pupal stage; instead, the nymphs gradually develop wings externally over successive molts.
Therefore, stating that hemimetabolous insects have a pupal stage is incorrect.
Both statements have inverted definitions of the developmental stages.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect, corresponding to option (2).