Wing structure and polymorphism in minute scavenger beetles (Coleoptera,Latridiidae)

The main structural elements of the hind wing in 56 species of the family Latridiidae (Coleoptera) are analyzed. In macropterous forms, wing venation is reduced to 3 modified veins. 10 areas of sclerotization of the wing membrane are distinguished. Three forms with different degrees of wing reduction are revealed: the brachypterous, the micropterous, and the apterous form. Among 56 species examined, 40 are represented only by the macropterous form; 2, 3, 5, and 6 species, by macropterous and brachypterous, macropterous and micropterous, micropterous, and apterous forms, respectively.