What best describes a key activity in the larval stage of a butterfly?

In the larval stage of a butterfly, which is commonly known as the caterpillar stage, the most crucial activity is obtaining nutrients. During this phase, the caterpillar primarily focuses on feeding and growth. It consumes a significant amount of leaves and other plant materials to gather energy and building blocks necessary for its development. This intake of nutrients is essential to support the rapid growth that occurs before the caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis into the pupal stage, where it will eventually transform into a butterfly.

While metamorphosis is a significant process that occurs later in the caterpillar's life cycle, the larval stage itself is predominantly characterized by the caterpillar's feeding habits. Defending territory and building a cocoon are behaviors not typically associated with this stage; instead, caterpillars are more focused on survival and eating to grow as quickly as possible.