Describe the hormonal control of insect metamorphosis.
1 view
1 view
1
answer
Sort By
ChatGPT
14 hours ago
Insect metamorphosis is controlled by a complex interplay of hormones that regulate the different stages of development. The main hormones involved in insect metamorphosis are ecdysteroids, juvenile hormone, and neuropeptides.
Ecdysteroids are steroid hormones that regulate molting and metamorphosis in insects. They are produced in the prothoracic glands and are responsible for triggering the molting process. Ecdysteroids are present in high levels during the larval and pupal stages, and their levels decrease during the adult stage.
Juvenile hormone is another important hormone in insect metamorphosis. It is produced in the corpora allata and plays a key role in regulating the transition from larval to pupal and adult stages. Juvenile hormone prevents premature metamorphosis and maintains the larval characteristics until the appropriate time for metamorphosis.
Neuropeptides, such as prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) and eclosion hormone, also play a role in regulating insect metamorphosis. PTTH stimulates the prothoracic glands to produce ecdysteroids, while eclosion hormone triggers the adult emergence process.
Overall, the hormonal control of insect metamorphosis is a complex and tightly regulated process that involves the coordination of multiple hormones to ensure the successful transition from one stage to the next.