OPM Termite Practice Exam

What is the term used to describe insects with equal wings?

1. Order Lepidoptera

2. Order Hymenoptera

3. Order Isoptera

4. Order Coleoptera

The correct answer is: Order Isoptera

The term used to describe insects with equal wings is associated with the order Isoptera, which refers to termites. Isoptera translates to "equal wings," which is a defining characteristic of these insects. Termites have two pairs of wings that are of equal size and shape, which distinguishes them from other insect orders where wing sizes can vary significantly. In contrast, other orders listed, such as Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), Hymenoptera (bees, ants, and wasps), and Coleoptera (beetles), exhibit different wing structures. For instance, in Lepidoptera, the forewings and hindwings are often not equal in size, and in Coleoptera, the hardened forewings (elytra) serve as a protective cover, which is quite different from the anatomy described for isopterans. Therefore, the connection between the term 'equal wings' and the order Isoptera accurately reflects the defining trait of termites.