coleoptera

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   beetles collectively; insects of the order Coleoptera, characterized by hardened forewings that protect the flight wings

   The survey found the forest especially rich in coleoptera, including several rare weevils.

From New Latin Coleoptera, ultimately from Greek koleon, 'sheath,' plus pteron, 'wing.' The name refers to the hardened forewings, or elytra, that form a protective sheath over a beetle's membranous flight wings.

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