What type of metamorphosis do silverfish and springtails undergo?

Silverfish and springtails undergo gradual metamorphosis, which is characterized by a series of molts where the young resemble smaller versions of the adults. Unlike complete metamorphosis, where organisms go through distinct life stages including a larval and pupal stage, or incomplete metamorphosis, which involves nymphs that gradually develop into adults after a series of molts, gradual metamorphosis can be regarded as a simpler change where there are no significant life stage transformations.

In the case of silverfish and springtails, the immature forms (juveniles) do not differ drastically in appearance from the adults and simply grow larger and undergo physical changes with each molting stage. This continuous, progressive development aligns with the concept of gradual metamorphosis, thereby making this option the correct choice. The terminology around these types of metamorphosis is important to understand, as it distinguishes how different insects grow and develop throughout their life cycle.