resilin

protein

Learn about this topic in these articles:

fleas

  • flea
    In flea: Form and function

    …a rubbery protein known as resilin forms a hinge where the wings attach to the body. Resilin absorbs compression and tension created during each wing stroke, and the stored energy is transferred through an elastic recoil-like effect to assist in the initiation of each successive stroke. Fleas, despite their wingless…

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insect locomotion

  • insect diversity
    In insect: Thorax

    …pad of an elastic protein, resilin; when the catch mechanism is released, the stored energy in the protein molecule is used to project the insect into the air. Insect flight is achieved by flapping the wings; during these movements the wing blade, twisted as it passes from elevation to depression,…

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