Larva

: larvae /ˈlɑːrviː/) is a distinct juvenile form many animals undergo before metamorphosis into their next life stage.

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.

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