Elytron
For the academic journal, see Elytron (journal). The elytra of this cockchafer beetle are readily distinguished from the transparent hindwings. Parts of the hemelytra of a typical bug An elytron ( / ˈ ɛ l aɪ t r ɒ n / ; from Greek ἔλυτρον "sheath, cover"; plural: elytra /- t r ə / ) [1] [2] is a modified, hardened forewing of certain insect orders, notably beetles (Coleoptera) and a few of the true bugs (Hemiptera); in most true bugs, the forewings are instead called hemelytra (sometimes alternatively spelled as "hemielytra"), as only the basal half is thickened while the apex is membranous. An elytron is sometimes also referred to as a shard . Description The elytra primarily serve as protective wing-cases for the hindwings underneath, which are used for flying. To fly, a beetle typically opens the elytra and then extends the hindwings, flying while still holding the elytra open, though some beetles in the families Scarabaeidae and Buprestidae can fly with the
