What is "hemimetabolism"

n. (context biology English) incomplete metamorphosis; the mode of development of certain insects that includes three distinct stages: egg, nymph, and imago (adult).

n. incomplete or partial metamorphosis in insects [syn: hemimetamorphosis, hemimetaboly]

Hemimetabolism or hemimetaboly, also called incomplete metamorphosis and paurometabolism, is the mode of development of certain insects that includes three distinct stages: the egg, nymph, and the adult stage, or imago. These groups go through gradual changes; there is no pupal stage. The nymph often somewhat resembles the adult stage but lacks wings and functional reproductive organs.