The elytra of this
cockchafer (maybug) are readily distinguished from the transparent hindwings.
Checkered Beetle Trichodes alvearius taking off from
knapweed, elytra held high above the wings
Elytra are the modified, hardened front wings of beetles and some bugs (Heteroptera). In most true bugs, the forewings are called hemelytra, as only the basal half is thickened while the apex is membranous. view more...