Keitimme

Keitimme is a genus of extinct insects belonging to the order Hemiptera, commonly known as true bugs. The genus is primarily known from fossil records dating back to the late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. Keitimme specimens have been discovered in various amber deposits, providing valuable insights into the morphology and diversity of prehistoric Hemiptera.

Members of Keitimme are characterized by their small to medium size, with distinct features in their wing structure and mouthparts. Their forewings typically exhibit venation patterns unique to the genus, aiding in taxonomic classification. The mouthparts of Keitimme insects are adapted for piercing and sucking, indicative of their herbivorous or hematophagous dietary habits, similar to modern Hemiptera.

The habitat of Keitimme species likely included forested environments where they inhabited trees and shrubs, feeding on plant sap or possibly small invertebrates. Their presence in amber suggests they were active in arboreal ecosystems and had behaviors similar to their present-day relatives.

The discovery and study of Keitimme contribute to understanding the evolutionary history of Hemiptera and the ecological dynamics of Jurassic forests. While much about their specific biology remains unclear, ongoing fossil analysis continues to reveal their role within ancient ecosystems.

In summary, Keitimme represents an important extinct genus that provides a window into the early diversification of true bugs, helping scientists trace the evolutionary pathways leading to modern Hemiptera.