Synergy versus potency in the defensive secretions from nymphs of two pentatomomorphan families (Hemiptera: Coreidae and Pentatomidae).

One characteristic of true bugs (Heteroptera) is the presence of dorsal abdominal glands in the immature nymphal stages. These glands usually produce defensive chemicals (allomones) that vary among taxa but are still similar in closely related groups. Knowledge of the chemistry and prevalence of allomones in different taxa may clarify the evolution of these chemical defensive strategies.