Moulting
- Pronunciation
- /MOHL-ting/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Moulting
- Plural
- Moultings
Definition
The process by which insects and arachnids shed their exoskeleton to allow for growth or transformation.
Etymology
From Middle English 'moulten', derived from Old English 'mutian', meaning 'to change', and Latin 'mutare', meaning 'to change'.
Example
The dragonfly underwent moulting several times before reaching its adult form.
Synonyms
- Shedding
- Ecdysis
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Moulting is a critical process in the life cycle of insects and arachnids, allowing them to grow and reach their next developmental stage.