Larva

Animals with indirect development such as insects, some arachnids, amphibians, or cnidarians typically have a larval phase of their life cycle.

In the case of smaller primitive arachnids, the larval stage differs by having three instead of four pairs of legs.

By living in a distinct environment, larvae may be given shelter from predators and reduce competition for resources with the adult population.

Animals in the larval stage will consume food to fuel their transition into the adult form.

[8] Within Insects, only Endopterygotes show complete metamorphosis, including a distinct larval stage.