Question

Which of the following animals does not undergo metamorphosis ?

• A. Earthworm
• B. Moth
• C. Tunicate
• D. Starfish

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine which of the listed animals does not undergo metamorphosis, we need to understand what metamorphosis means and examine the life cycles of each animal listed in the options.

Metamorphosis is a biological process by which an animal physically develops after birth or hatching, involving a noticeable change in its body structure through cell growth and differentiation. This process is typical in animals like insects and amphibians.

Now, let's evaluate the options:

1. Earthworm: Earthworms do not undergo metamorphosis. Their development is straightforward, with juvenile worms emerging from cocoons without any significant structural change as they mature. Therefore, earthworms maintain a consistent body structure throughout their life, growing in size, but not undergoing metamorphosis.
2. Moth: Moths undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult stages. The transformation from caterpillar to adult moth involves significant structural change.
3. Tunicate: Tunicates, or sea squirts, typically undergo metamorphosis. Their larval form resembles a tadpole and goes through a transformation to become an adult. This change involves significant body restructuring.
4. Starfish: Starfish also undergo metamorphosis. Their life cycle includes a larval stage that is different in form from the adult starfish and requires transformation to reach the adult form.

Based on the above evaluations, the correct answer is the Earthworm, as it does not undergo metamorphosis unlike the other listed animals.