Seed Bugs
Lygaeidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Lygaeoidea
- Family: Lygaeidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lygaeidae: //laɪˈdʒiːɪˌdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Lygaeidae, commonly known as seed bugs, represent a diverse family within the order Hemiptera, characterized by feeding primarily on seeds, although some exhibit a broader diet.
Physical Characteristics
Oval or elongate body shape; four-segmented antennae; presence of ocelli (simple eyes).
Identification Tips
Distinguished from Miridae (plant bugs) by the presence of ocelli; differentiated from Coreidae (squash bugs) by having four or five veins in the membrane of the front wings.
Habitat
World-wide distribution, primarily found in areas with abundant seeds.
Distribution
Over 80 species in 15 genera in North America; approximately 1000 species in over 100 genera globally.
Diet
Many species feed on seeds; some on sap or seed pods, others are omnivores, and a few are insectivores, such as the wekiu bug.
Ecosystem Role
Important in seed dispersal and as part of the food web; some species may have roles in pollination.
Evolution
The family was once larger, with numerous former subfamilies reclassified as independent families, indicating a history of re-evaluation and advancement in taxonomic classification.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with other true bugs due to similar appearance; the misconception that all members solely feed on sap.
Tags
- Hemiptera
- Seed Bugs
- Ecology
- Taxonomy