A "mariposa" is the Spanish word for "butterfly," a colorful insect known for its delicate wings and transformation from a caterpillar. Butterflies belong to the order Lepidoptera and are found in various habitats around the world. They play a crucial role in ecosystems as pollinators, helping plants reproduce. Mariposas undergo a fascinating life cycle that includes four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. This process is known as metamorphosis. Many species of butterflies are admired for their beauty and are often studied in the field of entomology.