Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

instar

Noun

/ˈɪn.stɑːr/

Definition

An instar is a distinct developmental stage of arthropods, particularly insects, between two molts.

Examples

The caterpillar undergoes several instars before metamorphosing into a butterfly.
During its third instar, the larva is particularly voracious and consumes a lot of food to prepare for the next stage.

Meaning

The term ‘instar’ refers to the various stages of growth that an insect goes through after hatching from an egg and before reaching adulthood. Each instar is marked by a change in size and form as the insect sheds its old exoskeleton.