Hemiptera are a large and diverse order of insects commonly known as true bugs. They are characterized by their unique piercing-sucking mouthparts, which they use to feed on plant sap, animal fluids, or other insects. This order includes a wide variety of species, from aphids and cicadas to shield bugs and bed bugs, many of which play important roles in ecosystems or agriculture.
- Hemiptera means "half wings," referring to their distinctive forewings.
- They use specialized mouthparts for sucking, not chewing.
- The order includes both beneficial insects and major pests.