What Happens If a Fly Loses It Wings?
WouterInsects have evolved special mechanisms to deal with damage and broken wings. The asymmetry caused by broken wings can allow them to achieve a larger wing beat-amplitude. However, they cannot compensate for a rolling movement greater than 180 degrees, because otherwise, they would hit each other. Therefore, when a fly loses its wings, it is more likely to fall to the ground.
Luckily, the wing system of a fly is modular. For example, it can compensate for the loss of lift by increasing the wing beat or reducing the wing stroke. But these two functions are independent of one another. By making these two adjustments, a fly can still perform all of its flying movements.
Damaged wings can also cause a change in size, shape, or structural integrity. This can affect flight performance and overall fitness. However, vertebrates have general mechanisms for repairing damaged tissues. Birds, bats, and other mammals have the ability to replace damaged feathers by moulting. Insects, on the other hand, lack this capability, and must rely on damage compensation methods to maintain wing health.
The study also found that flightless stoneflies have been found on several mountain ranges. This suggests that these creatures may have been present in the past before human-made changes reshaped their bodies. In addition, it suggests that their genetic makeup could have evolved independently of humans.
