Hemiptera

Common Names

Members of the Hemiptera order are commonly referred to as "true bugs," a term that distinguishes them from other insects that may be called "bugs" but are not true bugs. Other common names for hemipterans include "bugs," "cicadas," "aphids," "scale insects," and "plant hoppers." While most hemipterans are terrestrial, a significant number of species have adapted to living in aquatic environments, including freshwater and marine habitats.

Characteristics

Hemipterans possess several distinguishing characteristics that set them apart from other insect orders. These include:

• Piercing-sucking mouthparts: Hemipterans have a specialized mouthpart called a rostrum, which is used to pierce plant tissues or animal skin and suck up fluids. The rostrum is typically long and slender and folds beneath the head when not in use.
• Two pairs of wings: Most hemipterans have two pairs of wings, although some species may be wingless. The forewings are often thickened and leathery, while the hindwings are membranous. The forewings can be folded over the body when at rest.
• Incomplete metamorphosis: Hemipterans undergo incomplete metamorphosis, meaning that they develop through three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Nymphs resemble smaller versions of the adults and molt several times before reaching maturity.
• Presence of scent glands: Many hemipterans have scent glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid, which is used for defense against predators.

Environments

Hemipterans are found in a wide range of environments, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats. Marine hemipterans are typically found in coastal areas, where they live on or near the water's edge. They may be found on rocks, seaweed, or other marine vegetation. Some species are even capable of swimming and may live in the open ocean.

Marine Adaptations

Marine hemipterans have developed a number of adaptations that allow them to survive and thrive in their aquatic environments. These adaptations include:

• Hydrofuge surfaces: Some marine hemipterans have a waxy coating on their bodies that repels water, allowing them to stay dry while on the water's surface.
• Gills: Some marine hemipterans have modified respiratory systems, such as gills, that allow them to extract oxygen from the water.
• Salt tolerance: Marine hemipterans have developed adaptations that allow them to tolerate the high salt concentrations found in the ocean.

References

For further information on the Hemiptera order, you can refer to these resources:

• Wikipedia: Hemiptera
• Insect Identification: Order Hemiptera
• American Entomological Society: Order Hemiptera