Shield bugs (Scutelleridae)

Abstract

Scutelleridae Leach includes three subfamilies, 25 genera, and almost 100 species in the Neotropics. Both subfamilies Scutellerinae and Elvisurinae are represented by a single genus, and Pachycorinae contains the majority of the species. Neotropical shield bugs are usually dull colored, but polymorphisms and sexual dimorphisms have caused a considerable confusion in their taxonomy. Several genera need revision, and many new taxa are awaiting formal descriptions. Biological and ecological data are scarce, with a few species reported as minor pests.