Dealate

Definition

An insect, particularly an ant or termite, that has shed its wings after the mating flight.

Etymology

From Latin 'de-', meaning 'off', and 'alata', meaning 'winged'.

Example

The dealate ants began establishing a new colony.

Related Terms

• Alate
• Wing loss
• Flightlessness
• Reproductive biology

Usage Notes

Dealation often occurs in social insects like ants and termites after their nuptial flight.