Procleticini
Procleticini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hemiptera
- Suborder: Heteroptera
- Infraorder: Pentatomomorpha
- Superfamily: Pentatomoidea
- Family: Pentatomidae
- Subfamily: Pentatominae
- Tribe: Procleticini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Procleticini: //prəʊˌklɛtɪˈsaɪnaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Procleticini is a tribe of shield bugs within the subfamily Pentatominae, consisting of a single genus with 10 species in the region and 33 species in 11 genera globally. These insects primarily feed on plant materials and include both agricultural pests and invasive species.
Physical Characteristics
Typically characterized by a shield-shaped body, hexagonal in outline, with a well-defined, flattened pronotum.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinct triangular shape of the thorax and the body coloration, which can be green, brown, or black depending on the species.
Habitat
Often found in agricultural fields, gardens, and wooded areas where host plants are available.
Distribution
Species are found worldwide, with specific species adapted to various environments and climates.
Diet
Phytophagous; they feed on plant sap using their piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages; nymphs resemble miniature adults and undergo several molts before becoming mature.
Reproduction
Involves laying eggs on host plants, where nymphs will hatch and begin feeding.
Predators
Predated upon by various birds, spiders, and other insects such as lacewings and wasps.
Ecosystem Role
Play a significant role in their ecosystems as herbivores while also serving as prey for a variety of animals.
Economic Impact
Some species are known agricultural pests, leading to crop damage and economic losses.
Health Concerns
Certain species may invade homes; however, they do not pose direct health threats but can be a nuisance.
Collecting Methods
- Net collection from host plants
- Light traps
- Hand collection
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying specimens for entomological displays
Evolution
The tribe Procleticini is part of a larger evolutionary framework within the subfamily Pentatominae, which has undergone significant diversification.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often confused with other bug families; true bugs can be easily misidentified due to their common presence in agriculture.
Tags
- Pentatomidae
- shield bugs
- agricultural pests
- hemiptera