Acanthosomatidae

Definition

A family of true bugs in the superfamily Pentatomoidea, commonly called shield bugs. Distinguished from the larger family Pentatomidae (stink bugs) by features of the genitalia and scent-gland openings; approximately 200 species in 55 genera distributed worldwide, with highest diversity in cool temperate and high-altitude subtropical regions. Notable for maternal care of eggs and early instars in some genera.

Etymology

From Greek akanthos (thorn, spine) + soma (body), referring to spiny or toothed body margins characteristic of some species; family name established by Signoret, 1864

Example

The hawthorn shield bug (Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale) is a common European acanthosomatid that overwinters as an adult and exhibits parental care of eggs.

Synonyms

• shield bugs (common name, also applied to Scutelleridae)

Related Terms

• Pentatomoidea
• Pentatomidae
• Scutelleridae
• Hemiptera
• shield bug
• maternal care
• Heteroptera

Usage Notes

Often confused with Pentatomidae (stink bugs) in common usage; specialists distinguish the families by abdominal trichobothria arrangement and male genitalic structure. The common name 'shield bug' is shared with Scutelleridae (jewel bugs), requiring context for precise identification.