5

Types of Textures in Insect Wings and Classification

65

ability to fly and protection from the elytra have been lost (Lampyridae). The light

varies from yellow, orange and green to red. Metamorphosis is complex.

Example: Beetles, Jewel Beetles and Weevils.

Hymenoptera

Both the forewings and hindwings are thin and transparent (membranous)

(Figs. 5.11 and 5.12). The forewings are much larger than hindwings. Both the wings

are supported by a system of tubular veins. They are useful in flight. The forward

margin of the hindwing has a number of hooked bristles, or “hamuli”, which lock

onto the forewing, holding them together. The smaller species tend to have only 2–3

hamuli on each side, but the largest wasps may have many, which keep the wings

gripped together tightly during flight. Hymenopteran wings have relatively few veins

compared to many other insects. There is a prominent stigma or pterostigma in the

forewings of many species. Because of foraging habits, wings can withstand wear

and tear and can repair costal break. This has the aerodynamic advantage for a forager

exposed to vegetation and flowers. The abdomen is quite distinct. Many groups have

social organizations.

Examples: Bees, Bumble Bees, Ants, Wasps and Ichneumonid.

Fig. 5.11 Honey bee and wasp

Fig. 5.12 Wasp an

ichneumonid