How are the transparent wings of *Aphis nerii* alates distinguished visually?
Answer
The wings are transparent but have distinctly darkened veins
Winged forms, known as alates, emerge in *Aphis nerii* populations, typically later in the season or when colony density becomes too high, prompting dispersal. These specialized females possess wings that are fundamentally transparent. However, a key identifying characteristic observable upon close inspection is the structure of the venation system within these wings; the veins supporting the wing membrane are distinctly darkened. This combination of transparency juxtaposed with darkened veins serves as a recognizable feature for this dispersal morph.
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