Hymenoptera

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Definition


The Hymenoptera is a large order of organisms within the phylum Arthropoda, which contains insects like, bees, wasps, sawflies, and ants. The name is derived from the greek words "Hymen" or "membrane" and "Ptera" or "wings", which is perfectly describing the fact that their wings are connected into one point called the "Hamuli", and the membraneous tissue it is formed. Like most insects, these appeared at an early stage of earth's history, which according to a study done by D.A. Grimaldi, M.S. Engel et al, have been around since 281 million years ago (Triassic Period). The Hymenopteran who have evolved into a societal way of living(Cretaceous Period), similar to pre-historical humans, created a very well adapted form of resilience for the succession of its offspring. However, many different species still live solitarily, requiring others only for mating. The organisms, who have a social life, live in a nest (ants) or a hive (bees, wasps), which are all descendants of one queen. When the hive or nest is established by a queen in early spring, it begins producing its offspring that will work in their pre-assigned roles, depending on their gender.

Anatomy

The anatomy of hymenopterans are very similar to other insects. The ones who fly, usually have two pairs of wings. Their mouths can have two forms, just mandibles used for chewing, or with the addition of the proboscis used for drinking liquids, such as nectar. They have two larger compound eyes, used to differentiate brightness and color, and also three smaller eyes called "ocelli" that are much simpler.

Species which can fly, have their hind wings with hooked bristles called "hamuli" that holds both the fore wings and hind wings together. The number of hamuli vary between species and their sizes, with wasps having more than the usual two to three hamuli present in smaller species.