Hypermetamorphosis

Hypermetamorphosis is a kind of complete insect metamorphosis in which the different larval instars represent two or more different forms of larva. As the larva molts its morphology can change from that of a campodeiform (elongated, flattened, and active) to scarabaeiform (grublike) or to vermiform (maggotlike). Some of these instars are very active, while instars closer to final pupation become less active, in some cases.

It is exhibited by certain parasitoid insects, notably the beetle families Meloidae and Ripiphoridae, the fly family Acroceridae, the parasitic wasp family Eucharitidae, and the order Strepsiptera.

Use in psychology

Hypermetamorphosis can also refer to a mammalian/primate psychological condition where there is excessive and indiscriminate reaction to visual stimulus. It is a symptom of Kluver-Bucy syndrome.