elytron noun, plural elytra, adjective elytral - the wing cases; especially the hardened sheath-like fore-wings of Coleoptera (Beetles). Another singular form, less frequently used, is elytrum. In groups such as true bugs, where it is incomplete, it is called a hemelytron (plural hemelytra).

Photos of elytra in beetles:

See Also

elytron, elytra

hemelytron, hemelytra

wing

elytral suture

Internet References

Jardine's Dictionary of Entomology

Wikipedia: Insect wing

Contributed by Hannah Nendick-Mason on 18 May, 2007 - 10:24am
Additional contributions by cotinis
Last updated 17 July, 2009 - 9:32am

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