Size, shape and structure of insect wings

Abstract

The size, shape and structure of insect wings are intimately linked to their ability to fly. However, there are few systematic studies of the variability of the natural patterns in wing morphology across insects. We assemble a comprehensive dataset of insect wings and analyze their morphology using topological and geometric notions in terms of i) wing size and contour shape, ii) vein geometry and topology, and iii) shape and distribution of wing membrane domains. These morphospaces are a first-step in defining the diversity of wing patterns across insect orders and set the stage for investigating their functional consequences.