Time lapse transformation of caterpillar to chrysalis
The transformation of a Monarch caterpillar into a chrysalis is a fascinating process called metamorphosis, during which the caterpillar undergoes major changes to become a butterfly. Upon finding a suitable spot, the caterpillar spins a silk pad using a special gland near its mouth. This pad serves as an anchor. After creating the silk pad, the caterpillar attaches itself by its last pair of prolegs and hangs downwards in a J shape. This is a resting phase while it prepares for the next dramatic changes. As the caterpillar hangs, its skin splits at the back of the head and is gradually shrugged off upward, revealing a green case underneath—this is the chrysalis. As the old skin is completely shed, the chrysalis hardens and takes on a more jade-like color, with golden spots around it. Inside the chrysalis, the caterpillar completely transforms its body. This transformation includes digesting itself almost entirely to reform as a butterfly. This process takes about 10-14 days. The end of the transformation process is marked by the chrysalis becoming transparent, showing the black and orange colors of the butterfly within. When ready, the butterfly emerges, initially hanging from the split chrysalis to allow its wings to dry and harden after pumping them full of fluid. Once its wings are dry and hard, the Monarch butterfly is ready to fly off and start the cycle anew either by migrating or reproducing.
04/30/2024
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