Pentatomidae

Pronunciation: /PEN-ta-TOM-i-dee/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: pentatomid

Plural: pentatomids

Definition

A family of true bugs (Heteroptera) characterized by their piercing-sucking mouthparts and diverse feeding habits, including predation on other insects.

Etymology

From Greek 'pente' meaning 'five' and 'tomos' meaning 'sections', referring to the five segments of the antennae.

Example

The Pentatomidae family includes both beneficial predatory species and agricultural pests.

Related Terms

Heteroptera
True bugs
Rostrum
Hemiptera

Usage Notes

Pentatomids are often referred to as stink bugs due to their foul odor, which is produced by glands in their abdomen.