A more advanced Darkling Beetle pupa
 Darkling Beetle - Pupa

 

 

 

 

       

Stages of Beetle Metamorphosis

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Photos:
Photo 3
Once the larva reaches maturity it buries itself in loose litter and pupates, emerging as an adult in 7 to 24 days.  The metamorphosis from larva to adult  beetle occurs within a hard protective case.  The pupa of Darkling Beetles are exarate (i.e. the appendages are not firmly attached to the body).