The term "larval" refers to the early developmental stage of certain animals, particularly insects and amphibians. During this phase, organisms are often referred to as larvae, which typically have different physical characteristics and behaviors compared to their adult forms. For example, a caterpillar is the larval stage of a butterfly, and it primarily focuses on feeding and growing. Larval stages can vary significantly among species. Some larvae, like those of frogs, undergo a process called metamorphosis, where they transform into their adult forms. This stage is crucial for survival, as larvae often occupy different ecological niches than adults, allowing them to exploit various food sources and habitats.