bentwinged

Bentwinged refers to a characteristic found in certain insects, primarily moths and butterflies, where one or both pairs of wings are abnormally bent or folded. This condition is not a species-specific trait but rather a developmental anomaly or an injury that can affect individuals. The cause of bent wings can vary, including genetic mutations, improper pupation, damage during emergence from the chrysalis, or physical trauma.

In moths and butterflies, wings are composed of delicate membranes supported by veins. If these structures do not develop correctly or are damaged, the wing can take on a bent or distorted shape. This can impact the insect's ability to fly, making it vulnerable to predators and hindering its ability to find mates or food. While some insects might adapt to minor wing deformities, severe bending can be fatal. Bent wings are often observed in captive-bred specimens where environmental factors or genetic predispositions might be more pronounced. In the wild, individuals with severely bent wings are less likely to survive and reproduce. The term is descriptive, focusing on the visual appearance of the wings rather than a formal taxonomic classification.