Hemiptera - True Bugs, Hoppers, Aphids, and Allies
Hemiptera includes a diverse group of insects with a wide range of adaptations and feeding habits. They have piercing and sucking mouthparts, enabling them to feed on plant sap, prey, or blood. Hemipterans can be found in terrestrial and aquatic habitats worldwide and play vital roles in ecosystems as herbivores, predators, and disease vectors.
Identification Tips: Bugs have characteristic mouthparts forming a long, slender proboscis. Their forewings are typically half leathery and half membranous, forming an "X" shape when at rest. Pay attention to their body shape, wing structure, and presence of specialised structures like scent glands or enlarged legs. Note their diverse colouration and the presence of unique adaptations such as camouflage or defensive structures.