Which type of metamorphosis do stink bugs and scales undergo?

• A. Complete metamorphosis
• B. Gradual
• C. Incomplete metamorphosis
• D. No metamorphosis

Answer: (B)

Stink bugs and scale insects grow through a series of molts without a pupal stage, and the immature forms resemble small adults, becoming more like the adults with each molt. This pattern is called gradual metamorphosis. In pest management language, it’s described as incomplete metamorphosis, but the key idea is that there isn’t a distinct larval-pupal transition like in complete metamorphosis. They are not staying the same size and form, which would be no metamorphosis, and they do not have the very different larva and pupa stages seen in complete metamorphosis.