What is gradual metamorphosis in insects?

Gradual metamorphosis, also known as hemimetabolism, refers to the developmental process in certain insects where there are limited changes in appearance between larval stages and the adult form. In this type of metamorphosis, the immature stages, often called nymphs, closely resemble the adult but are smaller and exhibit fewer features, gradually developing into the adult form through incremental changes. This contrasts with complete metamorphosis, where insects undergo dramatic transformations, such as moving from a distinctly different larval stage into a pupal and then adult stage.

The other options pertain to different concepts of insect development or incorrectly characterize gradual metamorphosis. The suggestion that significant changes occur from larva to adult misrepresents gradual metamorphosis, which is specifically defined by the lack of drastic changes. The statement about no growth from immature to adult is inaccurate since insects in this category do grow; just the changes in form are not as pronounced. Lastly, the claim that all insects experience rapid transformation is incorrect, as it applies to those species that undergo complete metamorphosis, which is not the case for insects with gradual metamorphosis. Thus, characterizing gradual metamorphosis accurately as one where insects develop with minor changes in appearance captures the essence of