Question

Distinguish between the wings of Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, and Diptera in terms of number and form. (these are four of several major clades of hexapods)

Answer 1

The wings of Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, and Diptera differ in terms of number and form.

Step-by-step explanation:

The different clades of Hexapods, specifically Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Coleoptera (beetles), Hymenoptera (ants, bees, and wasps), and Diptera (flies), have distinct characteristics when it comes to the number and form of their wings. Lepidoptera have two pairs of wings covered with tiny scales, while Coleoptera have one pair of hardened wings called elytra that protect the second pair of flying wings. Hymenoptera have two pairs of membranous wings that may be connected or separate, and Diptera have one pair of functional wings with the second pair reduced to tiny knob-like structures called halteres.