Which one of the given responses would be meaningful order of the following? (1) Pupa (2) Larva (3) Moth (4) Egg

Correct option is A

✅ (a) 4, 2, 1, 3: This is the correct and meaningful order representing the life cycle of a moth and many other insects that undergo complete metamorphosis. The sequence describes the biological stages of development from egg to adult insect:
Egg (4): This is the initial stage of the insect's life cycle. The female moth lays eggs on a suitable surface, often on leaves or plants that will serve as food for the larvae. The eggs are usually tiny, oval or round in shape. This stage involves embryonic development within the egg until hatching occurs.
Larva (2): Once the egg hatches, the larval stage begins. The larva, also called a caterpillar in moths and butterflies, is a worm-like feeding stage. Its primary function is to consume large amounts of food to store energy for the upcoming transformation. During this stage, the larva molts several times as it grows.
Pupa (1): After the larva has grown sufficiently, it transforms into a pupa or chrysalis. This is a resting or transformative stage where the larva undergoes a complete internal reorganization. The pupa does not feed but is highly active internally, as the body structures of the adult moth develop. This stage is crucial for metamorphosis, where larval tissues are broken down and adult features like wings, antennae, and legs form.
Moth (3): The final stage is the emergence of the adult moth from the pupa. The adult is fully formed with wings and reproductive organs. Its primary role is to mate and reproduce, continuing the life cycle by laying eggs to start the process again. The adult moth generally has a short lifespan compared to the larva.
❌ (b) 4, 1, 2, 3: Incorrect because the pupa stage (1) comes after the larva (2), not before. Placing pupa immediately after egg is biologically inaccurate.
❌ (c) 4, 3, 2, 1: Incorrect because the adult moth (3) cannot precede the larva (2) and pupa (1) stages. The adult emerges only at the end of the life cycle.
❌ (d) 4, 3, 1, 2: Incorrect for similar reasons; the adult stage is wrongly placed too early, and the larva stage is last, which is biologically impossible.