larva crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "larva crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all the possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding of this common crossword term.
Solutions for "larva crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRUB: A common term for the larva of many insects, especially beetles, characterized by a thick, segmented body.
PUPA: While technically the stage *after* larva in complete metamorphosis, it's often clued in relation to larval development as an intermediate form.
5 Letters
NYMPH: The immature form of an insect that undergoes incomplete metamorphosis, such as a grasshopper or dragonfly, resembling a smaller adult without wings.
6 Letters
MAGGOT: The soft-bodied, legless larva of a fly, often found in decaying organic matter.
11 Letters
CATERPILLAR: The specific name for the larval stage of a butterfly or moth, known for its segmented body and often brightly colored appearance.
More About "larva crossword clue"
The term "larva" is a frequent visitor in crossword puzzles due to its biological significance and the variety of specific names it encompasses. It refers to the immature form of an animal that undergoes metamorphosis, a significant change in form from its birth to its adult stage. For insects, this can be complete metamorphosis (like butterflies, beetles, flies) or incomplete metamorphosis (like grasshoppers, dragonflies).
Crossword setters love "larva" because it allows for diverse clues. They might hint at its diet ("leaf-eater"), its appearance ("worm-like stage"), its common location ("in the soil"), or the adult it will become ("butterfly-to-be"). Knowing the different types of larvae and their characteristics, such as GRUB for beetles, MAGGOT for flies, NYMPH for some aquatic insects, and CATERPILLAR for moths and butterflies, is key to cracking these clues.
Understanding the life cycle of insects, including the larval stage, not only helps with crosswords but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world. From tiny grubs transforming into majestic beetles to caterpillars weaving cocoons for their grand metamorphosis, these early life stages are pivotal and provide rich material for puzzle constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Animal: If the clue refers to a specific animal (e.g., "fly's offspring"), think about the larva associated with that animal (e.g., MAGGOT).
- Count the Letters Carefully: Many "larva" related answers have distinct lengths (GRUB is short, CATERPILLAR is long), which can be a vital hint.
- Think Beyond "Worm": While many larvae are worm-like, their specific names (NYMPH, PUPA) are more precise and often what the setter is looking for.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Use intersecting words to confirm your potential answer, especially when multiple options for 'larva' exist for a given length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a larva in biology?
A larva is an immature form of an animal that undergoes metamorphosis, such as an insect or amphibian. It typically differs significantly from the adult form in structure, diet, and habitat, serving as a distinct developmental stage before reaching adulthood.
How do crossword setters typically clue 'larva'?
Crossword setters often clue 'larva' by referring to specific types of larvae like GRUB, MAGGOT, CATERPILLAR, or NYMPH. They might also use descriptive phrases about their characteristics (e.g., 'fly's offspring', 'butterfly-to-be') or include terms related to the life cycle, such as PUPA or CHRYSALIS, which are subsequent stages.
Are all insect larvae the same?
No, insect larvae vary greatly depending on the species and type of metamorphosis. For instance, a beetle's larva is called a GRUB, a fly's is a MAGGOT, and a butterfly's is a CATERPILLAR. Nymphs are a distinct larval stage in insects with incomplete metamorphosis, resembling smaller adults, unlike the dramatically different larvae of complete metamorphosis.