elytron - Reflexions

elytron

From the Greek elutron, meaning sheath. The elytra are the two hardened forewings of certain orders of insect, notably the Coleoptera. They cover and protect, when at rest, the hindwings like a case. During the insect flight, the elytra are simply held open to allow the movement of the hindwings and give more balance, but they do not beat. The elytra can serve as camouflage in adopting the tones of the insect habitat, but they can also be used as a form of defence, adopting bright colours which alarm predators.