Why these sap-sucking insects are known as leaf-footed bugs and twig-wilters

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Coreidae family is a diverse group of over 1,900 insect species found worldwide. Ranging from tiny bugs to some of the largest in their suborder, they are known for their unique leg structures, chemical defenses, and a surprising habit of carrying their own eggs to protect them from predators.

The Coreidae family, belonging to the order Hemiptera, is a vast group of sap-sucking insects. Their common names often reflect their distinct physical traits or agricultural impact. In North America, the squash bug, Anasa tristis, is notorious for damaging cucurbits. Elsewhere, they are called twig-wilters because they inject enzymes into young plant tissues, causing them to wilt suddenly.

Physically, these insects are highly variable, with sizes spanning 7 to 45 mm. Many possess leaf-like expansions on their hind tibiae, earning them the name leaf-footed bugs. Others, particularly robust species, feature thickened, bowed hind femora armed with spikes. Internally, they are equipped with repugnatorial stink glands, which shift location during their final ecdysis from the abdomen to the metathorax.

Taxonomy within the family remains complex. While traditionally divided into three or four subfamilies, recent research suggests the group is non-monophyletic, as certain subfamilies like Hydarinae and Pseudophloeinae share closer evolutionary ties with the Alydidae family than with other coreids. Despite their reputation as plant feeders, some claims of carnivorous behavior exist, though these remain unverified and are often attributed to confusion with the predatory Reduviidae family.

Beyond their anatomy, some species exhibit fascinating behaviors, such as Phyllomorpha laciniata, which carries its eggs to shield them from parasitoids. This family, which includes over 270 genera, continues to challenge taxonomists who struggle to classify its diverse tribes, such as the strikingly aberrant Phyllomorphini, which are known for their spiny bristles and laciniate outlines.

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