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Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny
Number of Followers: 12

This is an Open Access Journal

Open Access journal
ISSN (Print) 1863-7221 - ISSN (Online) 1864-8312
Published by Senckenberg Deutsches Entomologisches Institut

[2 journals]

Cryptic genera, cryptic species: phylogeny of the genus Philopteroides
Mey, 2004, sensu lato, with descriptions of two new genera and one new
species
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 585-605
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114351
  Authors : Mengjiao Ren, Chunpo Tian, Alexandra A. Grossi, Fasheng Zou, Daniel R. Gustafsson : Closely related chewing lice in the Philopterus-complex are typically morphologically homogeneous, with the most significant differences often being in the male genitalia. However, in many groups within this complex the male genitalia are reduced and lacking one or more element, with the remaining components often at least partially fused. This is not least the case in the genus Philopteroides Mey, 2004, in which the male mesosome is often reduced and other characters are largely homogeneous throughout the genus. A phylogeny of the group based on a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear genes suggests that the species presently placed in Philopteroides belong to three different clades, which do not form a monophyletic group together. We here redefine Philopteroides morphologically, and describe two of these clades as new genera: Stasiasticopterus n. gen. for the species on bulbuls, and Coronedax n. gen. for species on monarch flycatchers. These genera can be separated from each other and from Philopteroides only by some characters of the male genitalia, but possibly also by characters of the preantennal head and female genitalia. In addition, we describe a new species of Coronedax, Coronedax longiceps sp. n. and provide an overview of the morphology of the male genitalia in the three genera treated. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 6 Aug 2024 16:18:12 +0300
A taxonomic revision of the genus Goniogryllus in China (Orthoptera:
Gryllidae: Gryllinae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 567-584
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e108699
  Authors : Yu-Jiao Guo, Shuang-Qi An, Zhen-Gui Fang, Shu-Fei Wei, Zi-Hao Shen, Zhao-Yang Chen, Zhu-Qing He : Species belonging to the genus Goniogryllus Chopard, 1936 are primarily identified based on their morphological characteristics. However, male genitalia provide limited features for classification. In this study, we sequenced the COI gene from 49 samples, and reconstructed a phylogenetic tree. Species were classified by a combination of molecular and morphological data, and some morphological features were re-evaluated. The results indicate that the presence or absence of pubescence on the thorax and abdomen, yellow stripes on the head with or without bifurcation, and the color of the maxillary palpus are interspecific differences. The classification based on these morphological features are consistent with the classification based on COI gene. In contrast, variations in the color of the hind femur, pronotum, and the number of dorsal spurs on the hind tibia are considered to be intraspecific variations. Additionally, Qingryllus striofemorus Chen & Zheng, 1995 and Q. jiguanshanensis Liu, Zhang & Shi, 2017 are recognized as the long-wing forms of G. ovalatus Chen & Zheng, 1996. Therefore, Qingryllus Chen & Zheng, 1995 syn. is a junior synonym of Goniogryllus. Q. striofemorus syn. nov. and Q. jiguanshanensis syn. nov. are junior synonyms of G. ovalatus. Furthermore, G. cirilinearis Xie, 2005 syn. nov. is a junior synonym of G. atripalpulus Chen & Zheng, 1996. G. octospinatus Chen & Zheng, 1995 syn. nov. is a junior synonym of G. chongqingensis Chen & Zheng, 1995. Lastly, Callogryllus yunnanus Wu & Zheng, 1992 is transferred to the genus Goniogryllus, as Goniogryllus yunnanus comb. nov. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 3 Jul 2024 15:51:45 +0300
New species of the long-horned caddisfly Oecetis McLachlan, 1877
(Trichoptera: Leptoceridae) from the Atlantic Forest, Brazil and their
evolutionary relationship
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 551-566
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114286
  Authors : Pedro Bonfá-Neto, Frederico Falcão Salles, Albane Vilarino : Asymmetrical genitalia are reported from major Trichoptera subgroups and evolved multiple times independently. In Oecetis, it is a characteristic of the insconpicua group. However, certain species in other species groups also evolved an asymmetrical spiny projection on the phallotheca. Here, two new species with an asymmetric projection are described in the falicia group from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, Espírito Santo state. Their phylogenetic relationships were investigated through a Bayesian analysis combining COI and morphological data. Additionally, we provide new records of Oecetis connata, O. inconspicua and O. paranensis from the Espírito Santo state, and O. connata and O. flinti from Minas Gerais state. Oecetis capixaba sp. nov. is placed with low support as the sister species of O. acanthostema, both presenting stout spine-like setae on the inner surface of the inferior appendage; the new species is diagnosed by the long spine-like setae on the inferior appendage, the narrow dorsolateral process of segment IX, and the phallic apparatus without apical projections. Oecetis ruschii sp. nov. is placed as a sister group of the clade including O. facilia and O. furcata, both presenting forked dorsolateral processes of segment IX; the new species is diagnosed by the dorsolateral process of segment IX with a lateral branching and the apex of inferior appendage wide and triangular. While the phylogenetic results should be considered preliminary and interpreted with caution, they indicate that the asymmetric projection evolved multiple times convergently in the avara, punctata, and falicia groups. The asymmetric genitalia in the falicia group seems to have evolved only in males since no correspondent asymmetry is described for females. The function of the asymmetrical projection remains unknown. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 2 Jul 2024 16:21:03 +0300
Integrative taxonomy reveals exceptional species diversity of Lucasioides
from China (Isopoda: Oniscidea: Agnaridae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 527-549
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e113041
  Authors : Jin Wang, Chong-Hui Yao, Chao Jiang, Wei-Chun Li : The genus Lucasioides Kwon, 1993 (Isopoda: Oniscidea: Agnaridae) occurs in Asia, but confined only to China, Japan, Korea, and Russian Siberia. The ambiguously morphological differences among some members of the genus make a dilemma: the species recognition, whether morphologically similar or different, is uncertain. In this paper, we present first morphometric and molecular data for the genus from a broad sample. DNA sequences (mitochondrial COI, nuclear 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and NaK) were generated and integrated with morphological evidence to reveal the cryptic species and delimit the new species within the genus. Seven species are described as new to science: Lucasioides digitatus sp. nov., L. dissectus sp. nov., L. dianensis sp. nov., L. formosus sp. nov., L. gracilentus sp. nov., L. schmidti sp. nov. and L. subcurvatus sp. nov. To date, Lucasioides species from China are 44.4% as many as all the known congeners worldwide, showing the exceptional species diversity of Lucasioides species from China. The results demonstrate that the integrative taxonomy is especially important to reveal the cryptic species among the high morphological similarity of taxa, as well as providing an effective way for species identification to accelerate the exploration of woodlice biodiversity. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 2 Jul 2024 16:21:03 +0300
Complete mitochondrial genomes of Bactrocera (Bulladacus) cinnabaria and
B. (Bactrocera) propinqua (Diptera: Tephritidae) and their phylogenetic
relationships with other congeners
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 515-526
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e115954
  Authors : Hoi-Sen Yong, Sze-Looi Song, Kah-Ooi Chua, Yvonne Jing Mei Liew, Kok-Gan Chan, Phaik-Eem Lim, Praphathip Eamsobhana : Bactrocera (Bulladacus) cinnabaria and B. (Bactrocera) propinqua are tephritid fruit flies of the subfamily Dacinae, tribe Dacini. The whole mitogenomes of these two species (first report for the subgenus Bulladacus) possess 37 genes (13 protein-coding genes – PCGs, 2 rRNA and 22 tRNA genes). The mitogenome of B. cinnabaria (15,225 bp) is shorter than that of B. propinqua (15,927 bp), mainly due to the smaller size of the control region and intergenic spacers in B. cinnabaria. Molecular phylogeny based on mitochondrial genes (mt-genes) reveals two clades of the genus Bactrocera: one comprising the subgenus Bactrocera and the other comprising the subgenera Bulladacus, Daculus, Tetradacus and unassigned Bactrocera sp. ‘yunnanensis’. The subgenera represented by two or more taxa are monophyletic. B. (Bulladacus) cinnabaria forms a sister group with the subgenus Tetradacus (B. minax and B. tsuneonis) and B. sp. ‘yunnanensis’, in a clade containing also the basal sister lineage of the subgenus Daculus (B. oleae and B. biguttula). B. propinqua forms a sister group with B. ritsemai and B. limbifera in a subclade containing also B. umbrosa, B. curvifera and B. moluccensis of the monophyletic subgenus Bactrocera. The present study supports the synonymy of B. ruiliensis with B. thailandica. It also shows a high genetic similarity between (a) B. melastomatos and B. rubigina, (b) B. papayae and B. philippinensis, (c) B. dorsalis and B. invadens, (d) B. tryoni and B. neohumeralis, and (e) B. cheni and B. tuberculata; and B. cheni is distinct from and not a synonym of B. tsuneonis or B. lombokensis. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 2 Jul 2024 16:21:03 +0300
Genetic and morphological differences among relict marginal occurrences of
Stenobothrus eurasius (Orthoptera)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 503-514
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e116541
  Authors : Zoltán Kenyeres, Norbert Bauer, Maciej Kociński, Beata Grzywacz : Steppes form large zonal habitats in Asia but only consist of localised outposts in Europe. An ideal subject for the study of differences within species between the main steppe zone and the localized more western outposts is the Orthopteran Stenobothrus eurasius, widespread across the Siberian and Central Asian steppes but present only in isolated relic populations at the western edge of its area. We used genetic and morphological analyses to detect possible differences among these relic populations. We carried out a study on morphological parameters of wings in parallel with the comparison of four DNA fragments (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 12S rRNA and the mtDNA control region, cytochrome B, nuclear internal transcribed spacers plus the 5.8S rRNA region) involving 15 extrazonal populations of the species. St. nigromaculatus was used as an outgroup taxon in the genetic analyses. Variability of the morphological characters of St. eurasius individuals was higher within the regions than amongst the regions. The two Stenobothrus species were not separated based on the CR gene. Samples of both Stenobothrus species were separated on the COI, cytB and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 phylogenetic trees with high support (PP = 1) in Bayesian analyses but clear genetic lineages were not revealed, and populations of the focal species were not grouped according to their geographic locations. The similarity of this species in different steppe outposts supports the hypothesis that St. eurasius was widespread in the more extensive steppe areas that were once present, but the extension of agricultural landuse reduced the steppe habitats resulting in the current patchy distribution of St. eurasius limited to the remaining habitats. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:58:18 +030
Revisiting the taxonomy and molecular systematics of Sesamia stemborers
(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Apameini: Sesamiina): updated classification and
comparative evaluation of species delimitation methods
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 447-501
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e113140
  Authors : Noémie M. C. Hévin, Gael J. Kergoat, Alberto Zilli, Claire Capdevielle-Dulac, Boaz K. Musyoka, Michel Sezonlin, Desmond Conlong, Johnnie Van Den Berg, Rose Ndemah, Philippe Le Gall, Domingos Cugala, Casper Nyamukondiwa, Beatrice Pallangyo, Mohamedi Njaku, Muluken Goftishu, Yoseph Assefa, Onésime Mubenga Kandonda, Grégoire Bani, Richard Molo, Gilson Chipabika, George Ong’amo, Anne-Laure Clamens, Jérôme Barbut, Bruno Le Ru : In this study, we reassess the phylogenetic relationships of the genus Sesamia Guenée, 1852 and examine in more detail the members of the nonagrioides species group, for which three distinct species complexes are identified. The calamistis subgroup comprises eight species, of which four new species are described: Sesamia kabirara Le Ru sp. nov., Sesamia kalale Le Ru sp. nov., Sesamia mapalense Le Ru sp. nov. and Sesamia teke Le Ru sp. nov. The incerta subgroup consists of 11 species, of which four new species are described: Sesamia kamba Le Ru sp. nov., Sesamia lalaci Le Ru sp. nov., Sesamia lusese Le Ru sp. nov. and Sesamia msowero Le Ru sp. nov. The nonagrioides subgroup comprises ten species of which two new species are described: Sesamia libode Le Ru sp. nov. and Sesamia satauensis Le Ru sp. nov. Phylogenetic and molecular species delimitation analyses of a multi-marker molecular dataset allow us to investigate and clarify the status of Sesamia species and species complexes. Our results yield a well-supported phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus, which supports the monophyletic nature of all but one species subgroup. The results of 16 distinct molecular species delimitation analyses show some levels of incongruence and, overall, a tendency towards over-splitting. We also present an updated list of species for the genus Sesamia and provide morphological keys based on male and female genitalia to determine the species group of any Sesamia species and to identify all species belonging to the nonagrioides species group. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:41:49 +030
Systematic revision and molecular phylogenetics refine the generic
classification of the bark louse family Stenopsocidae (Insecta: Psocodea:
Psocomorpha)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 433-446
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114349
  Authors : Feiyang Liang, Xingyue Liu : Psocomorpha, as one of the suborders of the order Psocodea, represents a large group of free-living bark lice. The phylogenetic relationships among/within the major groups, such as families, subfamilies, tribes, etc., of the bark lice need extensive investigation. The family Stenopsocidae belongs to the infraorder Caeciliusetae, which is a large group of Psocomorpha and is one of the common groups in Asia. Here we infer the intergeneric relationships of Stenopsocidae based on the mitochondrial genes and the nuclear 18S rRNA. The result supports the monophyly of Stenopsocidae and suggests the paraphyly of the genus Stenopsocus. Combining the morphological evidence, we propose a new genus, namely Neostenopsocus gen. n., which includes a number of species previously placed in Stenopsocus. The checklist of this new genus is provided. This new genus can be distinguished from Stenopsocus by the glabrous forewing CuP. In the revised classification system, Stenopsocidae includes four genera: Graphopsocus, Malostenopsocus, Neostenopsocus gen. n., and Stenopsocus. A key to the genera of Stenopsocidae is provided. We also present the diagnostic characters for each of these genera. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 10 Jun 2024 09:55:30 +030
Comparative geometric morphometrics of male genitalia in Xiphocentron
subgenera (Trichoptera: Xiphocentronidae): new species, revision and
phylogenetic systematics of the subgenus Sphagocentron
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 407-431
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e112587
  Authors : Albane Vilarino, Adolfo R. Calor : Geometric morphometric statistics have been employed to reduce the subjectivity of visual evaluations in taxonomy. Taxonomy in most insect groups relies strongly on male genitalia morphology which is often the structure with most data available, which is also true to caddisfly taxonomy. Here we revise the caddisfly subgenus Xiphocentron (Sphagocentron) adding five new species after 40 years: X. dactylum sp. nov., X. eurybrachium sp. nov., X. tapanti sp. nov., and X. tuxtla sp. nov. Additionally, we describe a new X. (Antillotrichia): X. drepanum sp. nov. from French Guiana and provide new species records of Xiphocentronidae from Bolivia, Costa Rica and Ecuador. We performed exploratory geometric morphometric analysis on the male genitalia’s preanal appendage to characterize the shape differences among the species, and to investigate its utility to classify species to subgenera. In order to infer species relationship and assess if shape congruences are due to phylogenetic signal or convergence data from 100 landmarks and semilandmarks, and 30 discrete characters were used to generate a phylogenetic hypothesis. The morphometry partially supports the subgenera delimitations, but the Antillotrichia subgenus greatly overlapped with other subgenera. The discriminant analysis overall classification correctness was 64%. Some suggested phenotypic groups were due to convergence. According to the preanal appendage morphometry, X. (Antillotrichia) fuscum is a Sphagocentron species. The phylogenetic analysis recovered Sphagocentron as monophyletic, but not Antillotrichia. Sphagocentron subgenus was placed within a clade of several Antillotrichia species, with X. (A.) fuscum as the sister of the other Sphagocentron species, although support values were low. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 21 May 2024 14:11:12 +030
Integrative approach revealing a species complex in the Neotropical
freshwater crab Dilocarcinus septemdentatus (Herbst, 1783) (Decapoda:
Trichodactylidae) with a description of a new species
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 385-405
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e115268
  Authors : Nielson Felix Caetano França, Célio Magalhães, Fernando Luis Mantelatto : The taxonomic status of the freshwater crab Dilocarcinus septemdentatus (Herbst, 1783) is still not well established. Currently, the main issue involves synonymization with D. spinifer H. Milne Edwards, 1853, based on a variation of the angulation of the gonopod apex. These species are distributed along rivers and lakes in northern South America, with disjunct occurrences in central-west Brazil and Argentina. Due to these inconsistencies, an integrative approach was performed to elucidate these questions, with morphological (including NanoCT-Scan) and molecular analysis (Maximum Likelihood Trees, Bayesian Inference, Genetics Distance Matrix, and Haplotype Network), based on mitochondrial markers COI and 16S rRNA. Both analysis revealed and supported the existence of a species complex under the name of D. septemdentatus. Based on the results obtained, we propose the revalidation of D. spinifer, the description of a new species, and the redescription of D. septemdentatus s. str., with a neotype designation for this species. The hypothesis that this species complex originated in the Pebas System, an extensive mega wetland system that existed along the lowlands of Western Amazonia from late Oligocene to late Miocene (c. 23–11 mya) is discussed. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 15 May 2024 18:04:15 +030
New species and reclassification of the fossil assassin bug Koenigsbergia
(Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Phimophorinae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 369-384
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114213
  Authors : Jamie Ramirez, Agnieszka Bugaj-Nawrocka, Artur Taszakowski, Christiane Weirauch : The assassin bug genus Koenigsbergia Popov, 2003 is currently monotypic and represented by a female holotype from Baltic Amber (~33.9–55.8 MYA). The genus was originally described within Phymatinae (Phymatine Complex or phymatine clade). However, our literature review reveals that the amber fossil likely belongs to the subfamily Phimophorinae, which is distantly related to the phymatine clade. The recent acquisition of one male and one nymph of Koenigsbergia provides the opportunity to reevaluate the systematic placement of this genus. We here examine the new fossils, concluding that the adult male represents an undescribed species, and describe it as Koenigsbergia explicativa, new species. Our morphological comparison between Phimophorinae, Phymatinae, and Koenigsbergia (macro imagining, scanning electron microscopy) shows that the fossil genus shares notable similarities with Phimophorus Bergroth, 1886 and Mendanocoris Miller, 1956. We therefore formally transfer the fossil genus to Phimophorinae. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 13 May 2024 12:23:25 +030
Phylogenetic analysis of Endonura Cassagnau, 1979 (Collembola, Neanuridae,
Neanurinae), including descriptions of four new species
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 343-367
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114038
  Authors : Adrian Smolis, Nataliya Kuznetsova, Grzegorz Paśnik : With 54 described species, Endonura is one of the most species-rich genera of the Neanurinae. The taxon is characterised by the presence of 0–2 ocelli, separate tubercles Di and De with the non-crossed type of chaetotaxy on the head, and two or three tubercles on the fifth abdominal tergite. Four new species from the Crimea and the Caucasian region have been described based on adult specimens: Endonura armeniaca sp. nov., E. cochlearifera sp. nov., E. crimica sp. nov., and E. duplex sp. nov. A phylogenetic analysis of the genus Endonura using 70 characters of adult external morphology is presented. Two methods were chosen to examine different approaches to the reconstruction of evolutionary relationships: Maximum Parsimony (MP) and Bayesian Inference (BI). Besides supporting Endonura monophyly both analyses failed to resolve any of the deeper relationships within the genus. All known species within the genus are grouped into two main clades, A and D. Both of these clades have members distributed throughout Europe, the Caucasus and the western part of Central Asia. Endonura crimica sp. nov. can be considered as an intermediate between these two clades. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:44:46 +030
Integrative systematics of the widespread Middle Eastern buthid scorpion,
Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880), reveals a new species in Iran
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 323-341
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e98662
  Authors : Masoumeh Amiri, Lorenzo Prendini, Fenik Sherzad Hussen, Mansour Aliabadian, Roohollah Siahsarvie, Omid Mirshamsi : Morphological and genetic variation among populations of the widespread buthid scorpion, Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880), occurring in western and southwestern Iran was explored using morphometric variables, one nuclear marker (28S rDNA) and three mitochondrial markers (12S rDNA, 16S rDNA, and Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I). Genetic and morphometric statistical analyses revealed extensive cryptic diversity. Phylogenetic analysis with Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood uncovered two divergent clades, one of which is described as a new species, Hottentotta hatamtiorum sp. nov., from Ilam and Khuzestan Provinces, southwestern Iran. The description of the new species raises the total count of Hottentotta Birula, 1908 species to 61, twelve of which are endemic or subendemic to the Iranian Plateau. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:38:52 +030
To see the unseen: notes on the larval morphology and systematic position
of Achanthiptera Rondani (Diptera: Muscidae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 305-322
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e116703
  Authors : Kinga Walczak, Thomas Pape, James F. Wallman, Krzysztof Szpila, Andrzej Grzywacz : The muscid genus Achanthiptera Rondani (Diptera: Muscidae) was classified within its own subfamily Achanthipterinae for decades due to a misinterpretation of adult morphology. Conversely, the larval morphology suggested that Achanthiptera should be classified within Azeliinae, yet no formal changes were implemented based on this source of data. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), we examined the larval morphology of Ac. rohrelliformis (Robineau-Desvoidy), Potamia littoralis Robineau-Desvoidy and Australophyra rostrata Robineau-Desvoidy. Despite the challenges posed by the poor condition of hundred-year-old museum specimens of Ac. rohrelliformis for light microscopy, CLSM examination yielded satisfactory results. Additionally, CLSM observations revealed peculiar modifications to the cephaloskeleton, including a dome-shaped (second instar) or spade-like (third instar) anterior rod attached to each mouthhook in Ac. rohrelliformis and P. littoralis. These structural modifications are likely to enhance the efficiency of food collecting by enlarging the surface of the mouthhooks. The results of our morphological analyses lead to the conclusion that larvae of Au. rostrata are facultative carnivores, while modified accessory oral sclerites in Ac. rohrelliformis and P. littoralis suggest a saprophagous feeding strategy. This study contributes new evidence that Achanthiptera is the sister taxon to Potamia Robineau-Desvoidy, and both are nested within the subfamily Azeliinae. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:24:20 +030
Comparative morphology of the feeding apparatus of Staphylinine beetles
(Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 267-303
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114508
  Authors : Erich L. Spiessberger, Alfred F. Newton, Margaret K. Thayer, Oliver Betz : The mouthparts and protarsi of adult rove-beetles of the Staphylinine group are examined in detail. We provide descriptions and image plates based on scanning electron micrographs taken from 36 species representing all 10 subfamilies comprising this large staphylinid subunit. We establish groundplan features of the mouthparts for the Staphylinine group and discuss, in detail, aspects and functions of structures that compose the feeding apparatus. A phylogenetic scheme is used to conduct an ancestral character reconstruction of the morphological characters. The potential groundplan features of the characters rendered in our parsimony analysis for the Staphylinine group are: labrum subquadrate or longer than wide; mandible without subapical teeth and retinaculum, with prostheca present, not forming lobe-like projection, and with a mola; maxillary palpomere 4 well-developed, fully sclerotized, similar in width to palpomere 3; ‘glossa’ integrated with prementum plate, sometimes represented by pairs of sensilla basiconica; ‘paraglossa’ with unmodified antero-lateral lobes; labial palpomere 3 from as wide to half as wide as penultimate palpomere. To explain the shape variation of the mandibles, a geometric morphometric analysis was carried out. A character mapping analysis of mandible shapes revealed a trend in the Staphylinine group toward a falcate shape with a narrow base, typically present in some predatory species. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:43:15 +030
Uncovering glacial footprints and identifying phylogeographic units in the
freshwater crab Potamon elbursi Pretzmann, 1962 (Decapoda: Potamidae)
based on mitochondrial data
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 253-266
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e105740
  Authors : Atefe Kalate, Alireza Keikhosravi, Reza Nasrabadi, Elahe Parvizi, Christoph D. Schubart, Reza Naderloo : The current patterns of biodiversity have significantly been affected by glacial-interglacial cycles during the Pleistocene period. True freshwater crabs are considered as poor dispersers and terrestrial barriers restrict gene flow between their local populations. Recent studies, however, suggest that certain environmental conditions, such as periods of heavy rainfall and humidity, can facilitate their between-drainage dispersal and will result in the evolution of homogenous genetic patterns among different drainage systems. Here we tested this hypothesis by comparing populations of the endemic freshwater crab Potamon elbursi Pretzmann, 1962 distributed in two drainage systems, the Caspian Sea and Namak Lake, in northern Iran. Our results based on the genetic analysis of 70 new and 61 previously published sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene revealed a substantial haplotype diversity in some populations and high levels of local population structuring in others. Initially, we found mixed evidence of genetic differentiation and connectivity among drainages and populations. Genetic differentiation between the two drainages only became apparent after the Sepirdood population (which belongs to the Caspian Sea drainage) was excluded. Subsequently, the two drainages showed significant genetic distinctions, with a limited gene flow between them. Our demographic analyses supported recent population bottlenecks, followed by a rapid demographic and/or spatial expansion dating back to the Pleistocene climatic fluctuations. Species distribution modelling suggests that precipitation during warm weather conditions profoundly affects the distribution of P. elbursi. This study indicates that freshwater crabs can override short land barriers under favorable weather conditions and will have conservation implications in the face of contemporary climatic fluctuations. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:32:56 +030
Discovery of the pincer wasp Thaumatodryininae (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) in
Burmese amber, with description of a new genus and the first phylogenetic
analysis of the subfamily
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 235-252
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e106734
  Authors : André L. Martins, Gabriel A. R. Melo : Thaumatodryininae is a small subfamily of Dryinidae, known to attack nymphs of auchenorrhynchous Flatidae (Hemiptera). Only one genus is recognized, Thaumatodryinus Perkins, with 35 species including fossil and extant taxa. Currently, the oldest record for the genus is from Baltic amber. Here, we present the first record of Thaumatodryininae from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber with the description of †Thaumatorrhinos athrix gen. et sp. nov., derived from the first phylogeny for this subfamily based on morphological characters. The placement of †Thaumatorrhinos gen. nov. in Thaumatodryininae and the phylogenetic relationships of this subfamily within Dryinidae are discussed. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:24:44 +030
Preimaginal evidence further elucidates the evolutionary history of the
genus Sinobirma Bryk, 1944 (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae)
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 201-233
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e104232
  Authors : Zhengyang Liu : The moth genus Sinobirma was reared successfully for the first time, based on specimens of Sinobirma bouyeri collected in the southeastern Himalayas of Tibet. Larvae were reared on the host plants Coriaria nepalensis and Prunus cerasoides in captivity in Yunnan. Morphology and biology of the ovum, larvae, and pupa of S. bouyeri are described in detail. The species exhibits strong gregarious behavior during all larval instars, with mature larvae of S. bouyeri primarily feeding at night. The larvae are black and decorated with green stripes, pupating individually in the soil. Numerous host plants known to be used by African and Asian Saturniidae were tested with larvae of this species. The first parasitoid for the genus Sinobirma is reported. The complete mitochondrial genome was sequenced and used to reconstruct a molecular phylogeny to test the tribal placement of Sinobirma. The paper provided further evidence that Sinobirma originated from the African mainland and reached the Himalayas through dispersal. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:29:36 +020
Unravelling the mishmash: A new phylogeny for the family Empheriidae
(Psocodea, Trogiomorpha) with a new genus and species from Cretaceous
Charentese amber
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 183-199
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114849
  Authors : Sergio Álvarez-Parra, André Nel, Vincent Perrichot, Corentin Jouault : The order Psocodea, including barklice, booklice, and parasitic lice, is diverse and widely distributed since the Cretaceous. That is particularly the case for the speciose extinct family Empheriidae (Psocodea, Trogiomorpha, Atropetae), recently fused with the ‘Archaeatropidae’. Understanding the evolution of barklice is dependent in part on studying this family, as its representatives have been found from the Early Cretaceous to the Eocene, surviving the K/Pg extinction event. The phylogenetic relationships of Empheriidae in relation to other families, such as Lepidopsocidae or Psoquillidae, have been extensively debated. However, distinguishing diagnostic characters for the Empheriidae has proven challenging. In this study, we describe the new empheriid Santonipsocus mimeticus gen. et sp. nov. from Cretaceous Charentese amber (France). It is the third empheriid species found in this locality. The new genus is compared with the other genera in the family, and Proprionoglaris guyoti and Proprionoglaris axioperierga are revised based on the type material and new specimens. We explore the phylogeny of Empheriidae, both the relationships with other families and the inner relationships between the genera, through maximum parsimony analysis and Bayesian inference analysis. Our results suggest that Empheriidae may represent a paraphyletic evolutionary grade to the rest of Atropetae. The phylogenetic relationships between genera align with the biogeography of the family and support previous hypotheses. In addition, we discuss the possible biology of the members of the family, shedding light on the evolutionary history of Empheriidae. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:43:29 +020
Unveiling ancient diversity of long-tailed wasps (Hymenoptera:
Megalyridae): new taxa from Cretaceous Kachin and Taimyr ambers and their
phylogenetic affinities
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 151-181
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e111148
  Authors : Manuel Brazidec, Lars Vilhelmsen, Brendon E. Boudinot, Adrian Richter, Jörg U. Hammel, Evgeny E. Perkovsky, Yong Fan, Zhen Wang, Qiong Wu, Bo Wang, Vincent Perrichot : The Megalyridae are a small family of parasitoid wasps comprising eight extant genera (71 species) and six extinct genera (13 species). Here, we report eight new species from Late Cretaceous Kachin (Myanmar) and Taimyr (Russia) ambers; the family is recorded for the first time from the latter. †Cretolyra noijebumensis gen. et sp. nov., †Cretolyra shawi gen. et sp. nov., †Genkyhag innebula gen. et sp. nov., †Megacoxa chandrahrasa gen. et sp. nov., †Megacoxa janzeni gen. et sp. nov., and †Megacoxa synchrotron gen. et sp. nov., are described from late Albian – early Cenomanian Kachin amber; †Kamyristi exfrigore gen. et sp. nov. and †Kamyristi yantardakhensis gen. et sp. nov. from Taimyr amber (Baikura, late Albian – early Cenomanian Ognevka Formation and Yantardakh, Santonian Kheta Formation, respectively). Phylogenetic analyses of the family are presented and the classification of the Megalyridae is revised accordingly. A new tribe, †Megalavini trib. nov., is erected to accommodate †Cretolyra gen. nov., †Genkyhag gen. nov., †Megacoxa gen. nov. together with †Megalava Perrichot, 2009; †Megalavini trib. nov. is characterized by the vein M fully pigmented and veins Rs+M and M+Cu aligned, the crenulate mesometapectal sulcus, and the pronotal spiracle not posteriorly surrounded by cuticle. This spiracular condition was previously only observed in †Megazar Perrichot, 2009, thus the subfamily †Megazarinae Perrichot, 2009 stat. nov. is proposed for the clade (†Megalavini + †Megazar), as sister to the remaining Megalyridae. The latter is defined as the Megalyrinae, with †Kamyristi gen. nov. being retrieved as sister to all other genera except Rigel Shaw, 1987 under parsimony analyses. To align phylogeny with classification, three new tribes are erected (†Kamyristini trib. nov., †Megallicini trib. nov., and †Valaaini trib. nov.) and the †Cretodinapsini is synonymized under Megalyrini. A grouping [Rigel + Megalyridia] is supported under Bayesian analyses, which is the only specific conflict with the parsimony analyses, suggesting some degree of caution with respect to the internal relationships of the Megalyrinae. Finally, a revised key to the Megalyridae genera is provided. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:33:29 +020
Comparative Mitochondrial Genomic Analysis of Longhorn Beetles
(Coleoptera: Chrysomeloidea) with Phylogenetic Implications
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 133-150
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e114299
  Authors : Yiming Niu, Fengming Shi, Xinyu Li, Sainan Zhang, Yabei Xu, Jing Tao, Meng Li, Yuxuan Zhao, Shixiang Zong : Longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) play a vital role in global ecosystems. Some of them contribute to nutrient cycling and pollination, while others, pose a threat to forestry production. Despite their ecological importance, there has been a lack of comprehensive analyses on the mitochondrial genomes of Cerambycidae beetles. In this study, we have conducted mitochondrial genome sequencing and annotation for four Cerambycidae beetles: Monochamus sutor, Monochamus guerryi, Monochamus galloprovincialis, and Monochamus latefasciatus. Our analysis revealed a high degree of conservation in these mitochondrial genomes, with rare gene rearrangements observed across the Cerambycidae family. Additionally, a notable bias towards AT content was identified, with most genes using ATN as the start codon and TAA as the stop codon. Except for trnS1, all tRNA genes showed typical cloverleaf secondary structures. Phylogenetic analysis using IQ-TREE and Phylobayes consistently produced congruent topologies. At the gene level analyses, our results highlighted the remarkable conservation of the COX1 gene. Furthermore, at the species level, we observed strong adaptability in the Spondylidinae and Lepturinae subfamilies. We also offer our insights into contentious aspects of the phylogeny. Overall, our research contributes to a deeper understanding of the phylogeny and evolution of Cerambycidae, laying the groundwork for future population genetic investigations. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 22 Mar 2024 18:23:29 +020
Comparative analysis of complete mitochondrial genomes of Panorpidae
(Insecta: Mecoptera) and new perspectives on the phylogenetic position of
Furcatopanorpa
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 119-131
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e105560
  Authors : Yuan Hua, Ning Li, Jian Su, Baozhen Hua, Shiheng Tao, Lianxi Xing : The scorpionfly genus Furcatopanorpa Ma & Hua, 2011 is a monotypic taxon of Panorpidae with a series of unique characters. However, the phylogenetic position of Furcatopanorpa in Panorpidae has not been satisfactorily resolved yet. Based on 48 complete mitochondrial genomes, we analyzed the mitochondrial phylogenomics and phylogeny of representatives of Panorpidae. The phylogenetic analyses indicate that Furcatopanorpa and Neopanorpa form a sister group relationship with high support. The chronogram of Panorpidae shows that Furcatopanorpa and Neopanorpa separated at ca. 82.07 Ma, while the species of Neopanorpa shared the most recent common ancestor at 49.07 Ma. Judged from the topology of the phylogenetic trees, it seems unsuitable to assign Furcatopanorpa into the subfamily Panorpinae, because this assignment may cause Panorpinae to be a paraphyletic group. A putative conclusion might be that Furcatopanorpa may need to be raised to subfamily status. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 19:12:53 +020
The Six Dwarfs of the Middle East: revision of the enigmatic praying
mantis genus Holaptilon (Mantodea: Gonypetidae: Gonypetinae) with the
description of four new species under integrative taxonomy
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 89-117
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e112834
  Authors : Zohreh Mirzaee, Roberto Battiston, Francesco Ballarin, Saber Sadeghi, Marianna Simões, Martin Wiemers, Thomas Schmitt : The dwarf-mantid genus Holaptilon Beier, 1964 is composed of small-sized ground-runner species distributed in the Middle East. Due to their elusive lifestyle, little is known about their behaviour, distribution, and phylogeny. The genus Holaptilon was once established for a single species, H. pusillulum Beier, 1964, based on material collected in Jerusalem, Israel. Later, H. brevipugilis Kolnegari, 2018, and H. yagmur Yılmaz and Sevgili, 2023 were described from Iran and Turkey, respectively. In this study, integrated morphology, molecular analyses, and ecology were used to revise the genus Holaptilon and define the boundaries of its species. New data on this genus are presented, based on Holaptilon specimens collected from various provinces of Iran, Israel, Jordan, and Turkey. Extensive analyses, including examinations of male and female genitalia, morphometrical analysis, and morphological hypervolumes were conducted to distinguish its species morphologically. In addition, four molecular markers (mitochondrial and nuclear) were studied to gain a better understanding of species delimitation and phylogenetic relationships. As a result, impressive inter- and intraspecific variability was recovered. In addition to the three already known species, four new species with their distributions restricted to Iran (H. abdullahii sp. nov., H. khozestani sp. nov., H. iranicum sp. nov., and H. tadovaniensis sp. nov.) are here described, and H. yagmur Yılmaz and Sevgili, 2023 is synonymized with H. brevipugilis Kolnegari, 2018. The integrative approach was essential for an adequate classification in Holaptilon taxonomy and also helpful in the clarification of problematic and cryptic Mantodea species. Additional information concerning the life cycle, ecological aspects, spermatophore feeding, as well as geographic range and historical biogeography of Holaptilon species is also provided. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 19:02:53 +020
Paraphyly of the subgenus Micronecta (Micronecta) Kirkaldy, 1897
(Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Micronectidae) based on mitochondrial genomes and
nuclear rDNAs
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 77-87
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e108906
  Authors : Bao-Jun Xie, Ping-Ping Chen, Jakob Damgaard, Jie-Yi Xie, Qiang Xie, Yan-Hui Wang : The genus Micronecta Kirkaldy, 1897 is the most species-rich genus in the family Micronectidae, containing more than 160 species. Micronecta is currently divided into 11 subgenera, five of which are monotypic. Moreover, the subgenus Micronecta is an empirical mixture group. The definitions of some subgenera were based on only a few aberrant morphological features, which are specializations with few phylogenetic significances. The relationship between these subgenera remains unclear. In this study, we newly sequenced mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) and nuclear rDNAs (nrDNAs) for 13 Micronecta species, representing seven subgenera, and those for ten other water bugs. Our phylogenetic analyses showed that the subgenus Lundbladella represents the sister group to all other studied subgenera of Micronecta. The subgenus Unguinecta was the sister group to the clade that contains Dichaetonecta and Sigmonecta. More importantly, the subgenus Micronecta represents a paraphyletic group, which further forms a monophyletic group together with the subgenera Basileonecta and Ctenonecta. This is for the first time that the phylogeny of the genus Micronecta was investigated based on molecular data and the paraphyly of the subgenus Micronecta was revealed. Such evidence suggested the necessity of the revision of the taxonomic system of the genus in the future, and may also serve as a reference for the delimitation of subgeneric characters. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 18:52:53 +020
Development and reproductive biology of Dermaptera: a comparative study of
thirteen species from eight families
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 35-75
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e96452
  Authors : Shota Shimizu, Ryuichiro Machida : We examine and describe the embryonic development of 13 species from eight families of Dermaptera, i.e., all families excluding Karschiellidae, Hemimeridae, and Arixeniidae: Diplatys flavicollis (Diplatyidae), Cranopygia sp., Echinosoma sp., and Parapsalis infernalis (Pygidicranidae), Apachyus chartaceus (Apachyidae), Anisolabis maritima and Euborellia pallipes (Anisolabididae), Labidura riparia (Labiduridae), Forficula scudderi and Anechura harmandi (Forficulidae), Paralabella curvicauda (Spongiphoridae), and Proreus simulans and chelisochid gen. sp. (Chelisochidae). We also provide new findings on the reproductive biology of the Pygidicranidae and the postembryonic development of the Apachyidae. Based on information from the present and previous studies, we reconstruct the developmental and reproductive-biological groundplan for Dermaptera and discuss phylogenetic issues related to this order. We confirmed that Dermaptera possesses the embryological features (related to mode of embryonic formation and manner of blastokinesis) that are regarded as autapomorphies of Polyneoptera. Eudermaptera is characterized by the extraordinarily great length of the embryo which attains its maximum length in anatrepsis period, the positioning of its posterior end at the egg’s anterior ventral side, the type of egg tooth, and four larval instars. Anisolabididae, Labiduridae, and Eudermaptera share an elongation ratio of embryos in the anatrepsis period (ERE) of 160% or less and a larval instar number of five or less, whereas Protodermaptera is characterized by an ERE of 210% or more, a ratio of embryonic primordium relative to the egg’s longitudinal circumference (IL) of 40% or less, and a larval instar number of six or more. Notably, the ERE, IL, and larval instar number of Apachyidae are within the ranges observed in Protodermaptera. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 18 Mar 2024 18:42:53 +020
Variable performance of DNA barcoding and morphological characteristics
for the identification of Arctic black-legged Aedes (Diptera: Culicidae),
with a focus on the Punctor subgroup
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 17-34
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e111985
  Authors : Carol-Anne Villeneuve, Louwrens P. Snyman, Emily J. Jenkins, Nicolas Lecomte, Isabelle Dusfour, Patrick A. Leighton : Arctic ecosystems face increasing risks from vector-borne diseases due to climate-driven shifts in disease patterns and vector distribution. However, species identification challenges impact vector-borne disease surveillance, necessitates accurate identification. Aedes species are predominant among Arctic mosquitoes and pose health risks, with some species potentially carrying Jamestown Canyon and Snowshoe hare viruses. However, identifying Aedes species is challenging, especially under Arctic conditions and with complex adult traits. This study assessed the suitability of DNA barcoding (COI and ITS2 regions) and morphological characteristics for the identification of Arctic black-legged Aedes. It also aimed to evaluate the reliability of publicly available sequences. Our analysis focused on Aedes impiger, Aedes nigripes, and two species from the Punctor subgroup – Aedes hexodontus and Aedes punctor. In our study, the COI barcoding region distinguished Ae. impiger and Ae. nigripes but not within the species of the Punctor subgroup. In addition, the ITS2 barcoding region did not differentiate the species. When we evaluated GenBank and BOLD sequences, we found issues of under-representation and misidentifications, particularly within the Punctor subgroup. Based on these results, we recommend addressing identification difficulties, particularly within the Punctor subgroup, and advocate for more comprehensive morphological and molecular identification strategies. Integrating morphology and DNA barcoding holds promise for robust disease surveillance in Arctic regions, yet challenges persist, especially in complex species groups like the Punctor subgroup. Tackling these issues is pivotal to ensuring accurate vector status determination and reliable disease risk assessments in a rapidly changing Arctic ecosystem. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 23 Jan 2024 18:30:31 +020
The Idioptera-Eloeophila complex (Diptera: Limoniidae): a phylogenetic
solution to an old taxonomic misunderstanding
- Abstract: Arthropod Systematics & Phylogeny 82: 1-16
  DOI : 10.3897/asp.82.e109995
  Authors : Daubian Santos, Guilherme Cunha Ribeiro : Eloeophila Rondani, 1856 and Idioptera Macquart, 1834 are two genera of the family Limoniidae (Diptera) distinguished by the presence of a supernumerary cross-vein m-cu. Although these genera were previously combined, there has been a lack of phylogenetic tests to investigate the evolutionary relationship between them. In this study, we conducted a cladistic analysis that indicates that Idioptera form a clade within Eloeophila, and therefore the two genera should be synonymized under Idioptera. Consequently, 87 species of Eloeophila are transferred to Idioptera. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 19 Jan 2024 14:55:23 +020

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