General: The order Hemiptera has been in flux, but apparently it now includes four suborders: Heteroptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Sternorrhyncha, and Coleorrhyncha. Coleorrhynchans only occur in the Southern Hemisphere.

Hemipterans are recognized by their mouthparts, which are modified into a beak that they use mostly for piercing plants and sucking fluids. When not feeding, Hemipterans tuck their beak under their chin and chest. Most Hemipterans have forewings with membranous and hardened portions.