Anasa tristis is a type of bug that belongs to the family Coreidae. Some of the synonyms for Anasa tristis are commonly used, such as squash bug, leaf-footed bug, and shield bug. Squash bugs are called that because they tend to infest squash plants and cause significant damage to the fruit. Leaf-footed bugs are aptly named because their back legs have flattened, leaf-like structures that help them blend in with their surroundings. Shield bugs are named for their triangular shape and the shield-like structure that covers their back. Other synonyms for Anasa tristis are less commonly used, such as Jadera haematoloma, Leptoglossus phyllopus, and Kleidocerys resedae.