What does the stem -ptera mean

[Blattodea313]

I have seen this stem a lot in insect orders i.e. orthoptera, hymenoptera, hemiptera, etc. I read one article that said that it meant wing or feather, but that doesn't really relate to insects.

[windward]

It does mean wing. Most adult insects are winged - or have winged members of their order. Other arthopods that are not winged (Diplura, Protura, Collembola, arachnids, centipedes, and milipedes), are thus seperate from insects.

You ma want try getting a used entomology text book. Check campus book stores at the end of semester, book stores that sell a large varity of used books or check out the amazon marketplace or halfpriced books marketplace. You should be able to find older editions of several books for $10-20.