Shield bug facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Acanthosomatidae |
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Acanthosomatidae
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Shield bugs are a type of insect known scientifically as Acanthosomatidae. They belong to a larger group called Hemiptera, which includes many different kinds of bugs. There are about 55 different groups, called genera, and around 200 different kinds, or species, of shield bugs.
Even though they are quite common to see, the shield bug family is one of the smallest groups of bugs in terms of how many different species exist. Scientists are still trying to figure out why there aren't more types of shield bugs compared to other insects like beetles.
What Are Shield Bugs?
Shield bugs get their name because their bodies often look like a small shield. Like most bugs, they eat by sucking the sap from plants. They especially like to feed on flowering plants.
Their Amazing Defenses
Shield bugs have a clever way to protect themselves from predators. They use a "layered" defense system:
- Camouflage: From far away, shield bugs are hard to spot because their colors help them blend in with their surroundings. This is called camouflage.
- Tough Armor: If something gets too close, their back is very hard and acts like a tough shield, making it difficult for predators to hurt them.
- Bad Smell: If a shield bug is touched, it can release a really strong, unpleasant smell. This is similar to how stink bugs defend themselves, which are close relatives of shield bugs. This smell often makes predators leave them alone!
Images for kids
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Tessaratomidae: Tessaratoma papillosa nymph
See also
In Spanish: Pentatomoidea para niños
