Cryptic species in the aphid genus melaphis walsh (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Eriosomatinae)
Citation
Foottit, R.G., Maw, H.E.L. (2018). Cryptic species in the aphid genus melaphis walsh (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Eriosomatinae). The Canadian Entomologist, [online] 150(1), 35-65. http://dx.doi.org/10.4039/tce.2017.57
Plain language summary
Aphids are insects that are difficult to identify using physical characteristics. As a result, aphid species can exist undetected by traditional techniques. Genetic analysis of aphids indicated the presence of at least three species instead of just one species of the aphid group Melaphis. This work establishes the proper methods for detecting and naming groups of aphids which had previously gone undetected.
Abstract
Melaphis rhois Fitch (Hemiptera: Aphididae) has been considered the only North American representative of the aphid subtribe Melaphidina. Molecular and morphometric analysis indicates that there are at least three sympatric cryptic melaphidine species in North America. Melaphis asafitchi new species is described and M. rhois is redefined and a neotype designated. The name Melaphis minuta Baker cannot be assigned to either of these species. Details of the life cycles of Melaphis Walsh species, including the existence of ovoviviparity in sexual females, is discussed.