Lestoniidae

Definition

A monotypic family of true bugs (Hemiptera) containing only the genus Lestonia. Members are small, cryptic insects with reduced wings and are found in Australia, where they inhabit bark crevices and are associated with Eucalyptus trees. The family's phylogenetic position within Hemiptera has been debated, reflecting its unusual morphological features.

Etymology

Example

Lestonia stradbrokensis, the type species of the sole genus in Lestoniidae, exemplifies the family's reduced wing venation and compact body form adapted for life under loose bark.

Related Terms

• Lestonia
• Hemiptera
• monotypic family
• Enicocephalomorpha
• true bugs

Usage Notes

Use Lestoniidae to refer specifically to the family; the sole included genus is Lestonia. The family's higher-level placement has shifted in classifications, sometimes allied to Enicocephalomorpha or treated as Hemiptera incertae sedis. Not to be confused with Lestonidae, a family of harvestmen (Opiliones).