Odontotarsinae
Genus Guides
4Odontotarsinae is a of shield-backed bugs within the Scutelleridae (Hemiptera). Members possess the diagnostic enlarged scutellum that completely covers the and wings, characteristic of the family. The subfamily is distinguished from other scutellerid subfamilies by specific features of the genitalia and abdominal structure. These insects are primarily distributed in the Palearctic and Afrotropical regions.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Odontotarsinae: /oʊˌdɒn.toʊˈtɑr.sɪˌni/
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Identification
Distinguished from Scutellerinae (the other major of Scutelleridae) by male genital capsule structure and abdominal sternite . The scutellum is enlarged to form a continuous shield covering the entire and wings, as in all Scutelleridae. Specific diagnostic characters require examination of genitalia and are not reliably visible in field observations.
Distribution
Primarily Palearctic and Afrotropical regions. The has a more restricted distribution compared to Scutellerinae, with highest diversity in the Old World.
Similar Taxa
- ScutellerinaeThe other major of Scutelleridae; distinguished by differences in male genital capsule structure and abdominal sternite , though external appearance is often similar.
- Pentatomidae of stink bugs with which Scutelleridae are frequently confused; Pentatomidae have a much smaller scutellum that does not cover the wings or , leaving the connexivum (lateral abdominal margins) visible.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The Odontotarsinae contains fewer than Scutellerinae and is less well-studied. The classification of genera into subfamilies within Scutelleridae has been revised multiple times, and some authorities have questioned the monophyly of Odontotarsinae as currently defined.