While the caterpillar is dormant in the chrysalis, most of its previous tissues and body organs break down and a whole set of new adult organs — such as wings, eyes, and antennas — develop.
Nukustaadiumis laguneb enamik vastse kudedest ja elunditest ning moodustuvad uued, valmiku elundid, nagu tiivad, silmad ja tundlad.