What happens to a larva after it completes its growth stage?

The correct answer is that after completing its growth stage, a larva undergoes a transformation into a pupa. This process is known as metamorphosis, which is a crucial stage in the life cycle of many insects. During this transformation, the larva will undergo significant changes, leading to the development of the adult form.

The pupal stage is essential as the organism begins to re-organize its internal structure, transitioning from a feeding larva into a more mature form capable of reproduction. This stage is where many of the larva’s tissues are broken down and restructured, preparing for the emergence as an adult insect. This transformation allows the insect to adapt to its environment in new ways that were not possible in the larval stage.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent what occurs after the larval stage. For instance, a larva does not die immediately after its growth stage, nor does it continue to feed or start laying eggs. Instead, it enters the pupal stage where it prepares for its adult life. This distinction is essential in understanding the life cycle of insects and the role each stage plays in their development.