The diagram below shows the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The diagram illustrates the reproduction and transformation of the Monarch butterfly. The process is cyclical, comprising

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four main stages from egg to adult. Monarch butterflies lay their eggs on milkweed plants, and after approximately two weeks, the butterfly larva hatches. The larva

subsequently

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develops into a caterpillar by itself, feeding on the milkweed as it grows. Once the caterpillar has reached a certain size, it attaches itself to part of the plant and hangs down, before covering its body in a type of temporary shell called a chrysalis.

This

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contains the larva

while

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the 10-day transformation into a butterfly takes place.

This

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pupal stage lasts until the fully-formed adult butterfly leaves the chrysalis. Following its emergence, the butterfly is now capable of flight and so it migrates south, where it remains for a six-month period. Upon returning north, the adult finds a partner and begins the mating process. When it is ready to lay its eggs, it finds a suitable milkweed plant and the whole process begins again.

Overall

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, the butterfly undergoes dramatic metamorphosis, before embarking on an epic journey.