noun
- a stage in the development of an insect between molts
Usage: biology
Examples
- The caterpillar molted into its third instar.
- Each instar of the grasshopper looks slightly different.
- The larva grows larger with each successive instar.
- Scientists study the duration of each instar in butterfly development.
- The first instar is often the most vulnerable stage.
- Aphids can reproduce during their final instar.