Arrange the stages of a moth’s life cycle in the correct chronological order from the very beginning to the adult form. (i) Pupa (ii) Larva (caterpillar) (iii) Moth (adult) (iv) Eggs

Introduction / Context:
Life-cycle ordering questions test conceptual knowledge of biological development. In insects with complete metamorphosis, the sequence proceeds through distinct morphological stages ending in the reproductive adult.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The organism is a moth exhibiting complete metamorphosis.
• Stages provided: Eggs, Larva (caterpillar), Pupa (chrysalis-like stage), Adult moth.
• No stage is skipped and each stage happens once in this simple model.

Concept / Approach:
Complete metamorphosis follows the canonical order: egg → larva → pupa → adult. Each stage has characteristic functions: eggs for embryonic development, larva for feeding/growth, pupa for transformation, adult for reproduction and dispersal.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Start with (iv) Eggs: oviposition precedes hatching.Next, (ii) Larva: feeding and growth occur.Then, (i) Pupa: metamorphic reorganization.Finally, (iii) Moth (adult): emerges with wings and reproductive capability.

Verification / Alternative check:
The adult must be last because it is the reproductive dispersal form. Any sequence that places adult before pupation contradicts metamorphosis.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options beginning with larva/pupa omit oviposition; options placing adult before pupa invert the transformation steps; mixing egg late breaks causality.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing incomplete metamorphosis (egg → nymph → adult) with complete metamorphosis (egg → larva → pupa → adult).

Final Answer:
(iv), (ii), (i), (iii)