The Pentatomoidea

This comprehensive work introduces the reader to the well-represented pentatomoid fauna of northeastern North America. About 120 species and subspecies in five families are presently known to occur in this geographical area.The text begins with a closely defined classification of the Pentatomoidea within the order Hemiptera. A discussion of the history of the investigations of North American Pentatomoidea follows, with a list of selected faunistic surveys by state or province and a general discussion of the pentatomoid life cycle including overwintering stages, spring emergence and mating, oviposition and subsequent development to adults. Here the author also considers the scent glands and the possible functions of their secretions.This volume provides updated keys to the northeastern North American pentatomoids, illustrations, references to revisionary studies of families and genera, statements and maps of distribution, pertinent biological information regarding field life cycles, laboratory rearing, immature stages, host plants and prey, and parasites and predators. Unique within its field, this book was written for individuals interested in insects as well as those specializing in Hemiptera."