Which statement is accurate regarding the life cycle of most helminths?

Most helminths, which are a type of parasitic worm, exhibit varied lifestyles that can include both parasitic and free-living stages. This means that while many helminths are known for their life as parasites living in hosts, some of them can also exist independently in their environment. This free-living phase can involve different forms of the organism that are not necessarily dependent on a host for survival, reproduction, and growth.

Understanding this aspect of their life cycle is essential because it contributes to their ecological roles and interactions in various habitats. For example, certain species may have larvae that develop and feed in a free-living state before transitioning to parasitic forms once they encounter a suitable host. This adaptability is significant in understanding the overall life strategies and evolutionary success of helminths.

In contrast, the other statements do not accurately represent the diverse life cycles of helminths. While many are indeed parasitic (as mentioned), not all fit that description, hence making the first statement too absolute. The statement regarding reproduction suggests that helminths reproduce only sexually, but in fact many species have complex reproductive strategies, including asexual reproduction in certain life stages. Lastly, while metamorphosis is commonly discussed in insects, helminths