Ventrite

The plesiomorphic condition of abdominal ventrites II and III in Rhagovelia is interpreted to be one in which these ventrites are flat or broadly arched and of form similar to ventrites IV-VI.

A rather widespread modification affecting the ventrites of beetles is what is known as “connation”, involving a reduction or complete loss of mobility at the junction between particular ventrites, usually starting with the basal ones.

Ventrites that are fused together, as evidenced by shallow or obsolete sutures, are said to be fused or connate, while “free” ventrites are those that are separated by distinct membranes.