Why is the pupa stage important in the life cycle of a butterfly?
The pupa stage is the third phase
in the life cycle of a butterfly. It is in this phase that a
pupa gets transformed into a butterfly. A butterfly pupa is commonly known as a chrysalis, and it is often found on the underside of a leaf, or in other concealed locations. Even though the pupa seems lifeless on the surface, amazing changes take place inside the pupal skin. During this stage, the pupa is more vulnerable to predators, as it cannot move.
Hence, the pupa camouflages themselves with the color and texture of their surroundings to prevent detection by enemies.
The span of time that a pupa spends in this stage varies from weeks to months, depending upon its species. There are other types of pupae which are very bright in color. Most of these pupae are usually poisonous.