SSC CGL 2025 PYQ — Question 22

SSC CGL - 21 Sep 2025 - Shift 1 • English • Q22

Read the passage and answer the questions:

The metamorphosis of a butterfly epitomizes one of nature's most intricate and captivating transformations. The life cycle initiates with the deposition of fragile eggs, often hidden on the underside of leaves, ensuring immediate access to nourishment upon hatching.

Once emerged, the larva — or caterpillar — enters a phase of relentless consumption, devouring foliage to fuel its rapid growth. During this stage, it undergoes multiple molts, shedding its rigid exoskeleton to accommodate its expanding form. This insatiable feeding period is essential for amassing the energy required for the subsequent, dramatic metamorphosis.

The transition into the pupal stage, encapsulated within a chrysalis, marks an extraordinary biological phenomenon. Inside, the caterpillar’s structures are enzymatically dismantled and reconstructed into entirely new forms — wings, antennae, and compound eyes emerge through a sophisticated process known as histogenesis.

Upon completing this hidden transformation, the adult butterfly struggles free, its crumpled wings needing to be inflated with hemolymph and dried before flight is possible. Once airborne, the butterfly's existence centres on reproduction, perpetuating the species before its ephemeral life concludes.

Though often romanticized, the butterfly's life cycle underscores a rigorous narrative of survival, adaptation, and evolutionary precision, offering profound insights into the fragile balance of ecosystems.

According to the passage, what crucial biological activity occurs within the chrysalis?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Rebuilding of the caterpillar into a butterfly through histogenesis. 

Context: The question asks what happens inside the chrysalis.

Explanation: The passage clearly states that the caterpillar’s body is broken down and rebuilt into a butterfly through a process called histogenesis.

Line to refer: “Inside, the caterpillar’s structures are enzymatically dismantled and reconstructed into entirely new forms… through a sophisticated process known as histogenesis.”

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.