What is a squash bug?

A true bug whose mouthparts work to pierce plant tissue and remove plant fluids is what a squash bug is.

Specifically, the insect in question (Coreidae family) carries the additional common names of coreid and leaf-footed bug. It is known as a squash bug because of some of its species -- for example, Anasa tristis -- preying voraciously upon such cucurbits as squash plants. It generally may be recognized by:

• Antennae, each of which exhibit four-segmented patterning;

• Foul-smelling scent gland;

• Multi-veined forewing membrane;

• Ovalish body shape;

• Tibia (next-to-last segment) enlarged on both hind legs.