Instar
- Pronunciation
- /IN-star/
- Category
- Developmental Biology
- Singular
- Instar
- Plural
- Instars
Definition
A developmental stage of arthropods, such as insects and arachnids, occurring between two molts until the organism reaches maturity.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin term 'instar', meaning 'form' or 'likeness'.
Example
The caterpillar of the Monarch butterfly goes through five instars before pupating.
Synonyms
- Developmental stage
- Growth stage
Related Terms
- Molting
- Larva
- Nymph
- Pupal stage
Usage Notes
Instar stages can vary in number and duration across different species, influencing their growth process and lifecycle timing.