ARE BUGS AND INSECTS THE SAME THING?

Many people use the words insects and bugs interchangeably, without a second thought. 

Insects and bugs are the same thing, right?

The answer, scientifically speaking, is no. They do not mean the same thing. 

Why does it matter that we know the difference between bugs and insects? Understanding the difference between insects and bugs helps us better appreciate biodiversity and communicate more accurately about the natural world we live in.

The Key Difference Between Bugs & Insects

All bugs are insects… but not all insects are bugs, and only one kind insect is a true bug.

• “Insect” is a broad category.
• “Bug” refers to a specific type within the ‘insect’ category.

Entomologist Sammy Ramsey, who is an Ask an Expert Anything and National Geographic Explorer, does a fantastic job explaining the difference between insects and bugs and what a true bug is in his YouTube short. It’s worth checking out! 

What Are True Insects?

True insects are among the most diverse organisms on Earth, and can be found in nearly every environment, including across Canada’s forests, wetlands, and urban areas. They belong to a large group of animals, called a class. 

All insects share some important characteristics:

• Three-part body - head, thorax & abdomen.
• Exoskeleton, which is a hard outer shell that protects their bodies.
• Six jointed legs attached to the thorax.
• Compound eyes
• Antennae, located on the head used for smelling, tasting & sensing their surroundings.
• Wings - though not all insects have them, most adult insects do possess them.
• Metamorphosis, which means they pass through distinct life stages like egg, larva, pupa & adult.

What Is a Bug?

While “bug” is often used casually, in science it has a more specific meaning. And to make things just a little more interesting, just because it has bug in its name, does not automatically make it a bug. 

One kind of insect is called a ‘True bug’. They belong to a subgroup of insects (order Hemiptera) that have specialized mouthparts (called rostrum), designed for piercing and sucking. It is rigid and beak-like, and acts like a straw allowing them to suck out fluids from plants, animals, or humans. Examples of true bugs include:

• Bed bugs
• Stink bugs
• Aphids

Knowledge Is Your Best Pest Control Tool!

The diversity of life around us is fascinating. The more we explore it, the more we learn and expand our understanding. The next time you see a tiny pest crawling by, we encourage you to take a closer look. You might be looking at an insect, but not necessarily a bug, and you may even be able to tell the difference!

If you need help identifying a common nuisance or serious insect that has become a problem in your home, cottage or business, contact our team!