Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
formerly considered a subfamily of Pentatomidae
Numbers
37 spp. in 16 genera in North America.
(1)Identification
Greatly enlarged
scutellum that completely covers the wings and abdomen like a shield is diagnostic - hence the common name "shield-backed"
Range
most of North America, including the Arctic regions
Habitat
fields, shrubby areas, wood edges in wet or dry habitats
Season
spring through fall (overwinter as adults)
Food
suck on seeds, leaves, and stems of a variety of herbaceous plants, trees, and shrubs
Life Cycle
one generation per year in the north; overwinters as an adult under ground cover or leaf litter
Remarks
Like stink bugs, may release an offensive odor when disturbed
See Also
stink bugs (family Pentatomidae) have a smaller scutellum that does not cover the wings and abdomen
beetles (order Coleoptera) have biting, not sucking,
mouthparts and a distinct longitudinal line down the middle of the back that separates the two
elytra covering the
abdomen
Internet References
Insects of Cedar Creek, MN website provides links to adult images, habitat and food info
Pentatomoidea website (U. of ND) -- list of host plants by species for this family worldwide.
