prepupal
/prɪˈpuːpəl/Definitions
1. adjective
Pertaining to or characteristic of the prepupal stage of an insect, especially a caterpillar, before it forms a pupa.
“The prepupal stages of the butterfly’s life cycle are crucial for its development.”
2. noun
A stage in the life cycle of certain insects, especially a caterpillar, before it forms a pupa.
“The prepupal stage of the moth’s life cycle is often overlooked.”