Stink Bugs
Pentatomidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Pentatomoidea
- Family: Pentatomidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pentatomidae: /pɛn.təˈtoʊ.mɪˌdiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Pentatomidae, or stink bugs, are a diverse family of hemipteran insects known for their distinctive shield-like shape and release of a pungent spray as a defense mechanism. They include both herbivorous species that are agricultural pests and predaceous species benefiting ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
Pentatomids have 5-segmented antennae, a large triangular scutellum, and a shield-like body shape. The forewings are hemelytra with a thickened basal half and a membranous apex. Adults measure 4-20 mm, with most species ranging from 5-18 mm.
Identification Tips
Look for the characteristic shield-like body shape and the presence of 5-segmented antennae. They exhibit various colors and patterns depending on the species.
Habitat
Pentatomidae is found worldwide, particularly in diverse habitats including fields, forests, gardens, and agricultural lands. They tend to overwinter as adults under ground cover or leaf litter.
Distribution
Over 4700 species globally, with significant populations in North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia.
Diet
The majority are herbivorous and feed on plant tissues, while some species of the subfamily Asopinae are predaceous on other insects.
Life Cycle
Eggs are barrel-shaped, laid in clusters on the underside of leaves. Hatchlings are gregarious and begin feeding shortly after emergence. Generally overwinters as adults with various voltinism observed among species.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid in spring, with nymphs and adults often becoming gregarious after hatching. Some species may display different reproductive strategies.
Predators
Pentatomids can fall prey to various insect predators such as birds, wasps, and other insects, particularly those that are specialized predators.
Ecosystem Role
As both herbivores and predators, stink bugs play significant roles in their ecosystems, influencing plant health and serving as prey for other organisms.
Economic Impact
Many species are crop pests, damaging agricultural production and leading to economic losses due to their resistance to pesticides.
Cultural Significance
In parts of Mexico, species like Edessa mexicana are consumed and incorporated into local culinary traditions.
Collecting Methods
- Sweep netting
- Using light traps
- Hand collecting
- Pitfall traps
Preservation Methods
- Pinned specimens
- Alcohol preservation
- Storage in entomological boxes
Evolution
Pentatomids belong to the order Hemiptera and are one of the largest families within the superfamily Pentatomoidea, with significant evolutionary diversity among taxa.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
The term shield bug can refer to several related families beyond the Pentatomidae, leading to confusion. Additionally, 'stink bug' may be inaccurately applied to unrelated insects like pinacate beetles.
Tags
- insect
- hemiptera
- agricultural pest
- predator
- ecology