haltere

/ ˈhæltə; ˈhæltɪə /

noun

one of a pair of short projections in dipterous insects that are modified hind wings, used for maintaining equilibrium during flight Also calledbalancer

C18: from Greek haltēres (plural) hand-held weights used as balancers or to give impetus in leaping, from hallesthai to leap

Haltere large, inflated, sac-like; bearing four curling set.

Calypter: Diptera; the alula or squama when it covers the haltere.

Pre-halter: a membranous scale in front of the true haltere of a fly.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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