Leaf-footed Bugs
Coreidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Coreoidea
- Family: Coreidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coreidae: //kɔˈriːɪdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Coreidae, also known as leaf-footed bugs, is a large family within Hemiptera, primarily feeding on plant sap but including species with varying life histories and ecological roles. Notable for their distinctive tibial expansions and pest status in agriculture, they exhibit diverse forms and behaviors.
Physical Characteristics
The Coreidae family commonly exhibit oval shapes, with antennae composed of four segments, and numerous veins in the membrane of the forewings. They vary in size from 7 to 45 mm. Many species have leaf-like expansions on the hind tibiae, particularly the leaf-footed types, and some species are covered with spines and tubercles. Robust species often have thick, bowed hind femora armed with spikes.
Identification Tips
Look for the characteristic leaf-like tibiae of some species, particularly on their hind legs. The presence of repugnatorial stink glands which are externally visible can also help in identification.
Habitat
Coreidae species generally inhabit warmer climates, often in tropical or subtropical environments.
Distribution
Cosmopolitan, with most species found in tropical or subtropical regions. Approximately 88 species in North America and over 1,900 species worldwide across 270 genera.
Diet
Coreidae primarily feed on plant sap, though some species may also engage in carnivorous behavior, although evidence is limited.
Life Cycle
Coreidae typically have one or more generations per year, with adults sometimes overwintering. Eggs are usually cemented under leaves.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid in protected areas, often under leaves, and some species exhibit parental care by carrying their eggs to protect them from predators.
Ecosystem Role
Serves as herbivores in their ecosystems, with some species potentially acting as plant pests, injecting enzymes into plant tissues that may cause wilting.
Economic Impact
Certain species like Anasa tristis, which has significant pest status on squash plants, can have substantial economic impacts in agriculture, particularly in cucurbits.
Cultural Significance
The common names associated with Coreidae, such as leaf-footed bugs and squash bugs, reflect their impact on agriculture and their physical characteristics.
Collecting Methods
- Net sweeping
- Sampling under leaves
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Freeze drying
Evolution
The Coreidae are non-monophyletic, showing varied evolutionary relationships with families like Alydidae, Hyocephalidae, Rhopalidae, and Stenocephalidae. They are believed to have adaptive traits for specialized feeding.
Similar Taxa
- Alydidae
- Rhopalidae
- Stenocephalidae
Misconceptions
Some Coreidae may be confused with species from the Reduviidae family due to similarities, leading to misidentification as they have varied feeding behaviors.
Tags
- Coreidae
- Leaf-footed Bugs
- Heteroptera
- Hemiptera