Leaf-footed Bug have flattened 'thighs', not feet, that are shaped like leaves, complete with serrated edges.
Leptoglossus oppositus is a species of Leaf-footed Bug found mostly in the eastern part of the continent as well as south into Central America. Adults are a reddish brown and have a white dot at the center of the wings. Two other white dots further down form a triangular 'constellation' on the dorsal (back) side. These dots may be remnants of what almost became a white band crossing the mid-section (seen on some of its relatives). The legs of this insect get most of the attention, however, thanks to their peculiar shape. Flat and oblong, the lower leg (tibia) is edged in a spiky scallop. It has the appearance of a small dry leaf, hence the descriptive common name. The edge of the upper leg ('thigh') is also lined with small serrated 'teeth'. These are used to fight with other males over females. Leaf-footed Bugs can release a stinky secretion as a defensive mechanism if threatened.
Juveniles look like smaller, short-winged versions of adults. This species feeds on, and is fond of, the pods that grow on catalpa trees, a native American genus of trees that is common in the South. Also called Catawba, Indian bean trees, and Southern Catalpa, these trees grow long skinny fruit shaped like green beans. Leptoglossus oppositus uses it mouth parts to pierce the pod and drink plant juices, though it is not considered a pest.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Arthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Hemiptera
Family:Coreidae
Genus:Leptoglossus
Species:oppositus
Identifying Information
Scientific Name: Leptoglossus oppositus
Category:
True Bug
Size (Adult; Length): 15mm to 20mm (0.59in to 0.78in)
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.
Colors: brown, white
