Which insect order includes true bugs that are commonly considered pests to living plants?

The order that includes true bugs, which are often regarded as pests to living plants, is Heteroptera. This order comprises various insects commonly known as true bugs, including species such as aphids, leafhoppers, and whiteflies. These insects are significant in agriculture and horticulture because they often feed on plant sap and can transmit plant diseases, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, and sometimes even plant death.

Heteroptera is characterized by having a distinctive mouthpart structure adapted for piercing and sucking, which is essential for their feeding habits on plants. Their presence in gardens and crops can lead to significant damage, making their management crucial for maintaining healthy plant growth.

The other options refer to different insect orders that do not primarily include true bugs recognized as common pests on plants. Homoptera, for instance, includes aphids and cicadas, which are also pests but are classified differently than true bugs. Collembola refers to springtails, which are generally beneficial for soil health rather than pests, and Neuroptera includes lacewings and antlions, which are primarily predatory and do not harm plants. Thus, Heteroptera stands out as the correct choice for identifying the order that directly corresponds to true