Which family is characterized by leaf-like expansions on the metatibiae, four-segmented antennae, and a four-segmented beak, with ocelli present?

• A. Tingidae
• B. Cimicidae
• C. Coreidae
• D. Gerridae

Answer: (C)

The main trait being tested is how body parts are arranged and modified in true bugs to identify their family. The key combination here is a leaf-like expansion on the hind legs (the metatibiae), four-segmented antennae, a four-segmented beak (rostrum), and the presence of ocelli. This suite of features is characteristic of the leaf-footed bugs, the Coreidae. The leaf-like hind tibiae are the most distinctive clue, giving the group its common name and a reliable identification marker. The 4-segment antennae and a 4-segment rostrum fit with Coreidae’s typical morphology and help distinguish them from other families that lack either the leg modification or the same rostrum pattern. Some other families, like lace bugs, bed bugs, or water striders, do not share this exact combination of hind-leg modification, antennae segmentation, rostrum segmentation, and ocelli, so they don’t align with Coreidae in the same way.