What term is used to describe the hardened forewings that protect beetles' flying wings?

The term that describes the hardened forewings that protect the flying wings of beetles is "elytra." Elytra serve a crucial protective function, covering and shielding the delicate hind wings and the body of the beetle when it is at rest. These hardened structures are distinctive to beetles, which belong to the order Coleoptera, and they contribute to the insect's ability to fly while also providing armor-like protection against predators and environmental factors. The presence of elytra is a key feature that differentiates beetles from other insects, serving both protective and functional roles in their anatomy and behavior.