Comprehensive Entomology – Morphology, Behavior, Evolution, and Pest Management Practice Test

Lytta vesicatoria is a blister beetle, and beetles are categorized in the order Coleoptera. The defining feature here is the hardened forewings, or elytra, that cover and protect the flying wings and the abdomen, with the hind wings folded underneath for flight. This insect also has chewing mouthparts and undergoes complete metamorphosis. In contrast, the other groups have different hallmark traits: Diptera have a single pair of wings with halteres; Hymenoptera typically show two pairs of wings and often a slender waist; Lepidoptera possess scaled wings. So the correct group for Lytta vesicatoria is Coleoptera.