Leatherbugs
Coreoidea
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Coreoidea
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coreoidea: /kɔːˈreɪɔɪdiə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Coreoidea is a superfamily of true bugs that includes various plant-feeding species, known for their distinctive bodies and ecological roles in diverse habitats. They encompass over 150 species in the New World and are important in both ecological and economic contexts.
Physical Characteristics
Coreoidea are characterized by their distinct body shape, which is often elongated and flattened. The antennae are typically segmented and longer than the head. Many species exhibit leaf-like extensions on their hind legs.
Identification Tips
To identify Coreoidea, look for their broad heads, elongated bodies, and distinctive hind leg morphology. Many are also characterized by their coloration and patterns, which can vary significantly among genera and species.
Habitat
Coreoidea are commonly found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, gardens, and agricultural areas, where they are often associated with host plants.
Distribution
Over 150 species from the Coreoidea superfamily can be found in the New World, while more than 2,300 species are distributed worldwide across various regions.
Diet
All species within Coreoidea are plant feeders, utilizing specialized mouthparts to extract sap from their host plants.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Coreoidea typically includes egg, nymph, and adult stages, with nymphs resembling smaller versions of adults.
Reproduction
Reproduction occurs via mating, with females laying eggs on or near host plants.
Predators
Birds, predatory insects, and some mammals may prey on Coreoidea species.
Ecosystem Role
Coreoidea play a significant role in the ecosystem as herbivores, influencing plant health and community dynamics. They may also serve as prey for various predators.
Economic Impact
In some cases, certain species may have a negative economic impact by feeding on crops and ornamental plants, potentially leading to agricultural losses.
Collecting Methods
- Netting
- Hand collecting
- Sticky traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol immersion
- Drying
- Pinning
Evolution
Coreoidea belongs to a closely related group with Lygaeoidea and Pyrrhocoroidea, indicating a complex evolutionary history that is still being researched.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some people confuse Coreoidea with other types of true bugs due to their similar appearance, leading to incorrect identification.
Tags
- Coreoidea
- Leatherbugs
- True bugs
- Heteroptera
- Insecta