larva larva /ˈlɑːrvə/

noun

1. () The immature free-living form of most invertebrates and amphibians and fish which at hatching from the egg is fundamentally unlike its parent and must metamorphose  ( larva )
   the immature free-living form of most invertebrates and amphibians and fish which at hatching from the egg is fundamentally unlike its parent and must metamorphose
     The caterpillar transformed into a colorful butterfly, emerging from its larva stage.
   The caterpillar transformed into a colorful butterfly, emerging from its larva stage.