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Integrative taxonomic practices that combine multiple lines of evidence for species delimitation greatly improve our understanding of intra- and inter-species variation and biodiversity. However, extended phenotypes remain underutilized despite their potential as a species-specific set of extracorporeal morphological and life history traits. Primarily relying on variations in wing patterns has caused taxonomic confusion in the genusAciurina, which are gall-inducing flies on Asteraceae plants in western North America. However, species display distinct gall morphologies that can be crucial for species identification. Here we investigate a unique gall morphotype in New Mexico and Colorado that was previously described as a variant of that induced byAciurina bigeloviae(Cockerell, 1890). Our analysis has discovered several consistent features that distinguish it from galls ofA. bigeloviae. A comprehensive description ofAciurina luminariaBaine,sp. nov.and its gall is provided through integrative taxonomic study of gall morphology, host plant ecology, wing morphometrics, and reduced-representation genome sequencing.
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Identification, biology, and management of conifer sawflies (Hymenoptera: Diprioninae) in eastern North America
Abstract Pine sawflies (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae) are eruptive herbivores found throughout eastern North America. The Diprionidae family, which contains at least 140 species, constitutes the most persistent threat to conifers as population outbreaks can cause widespread defoliation. Because some species are more prone to large, destructive outbreaks than others, species identification is critical to effective management. Although existing taxonomic keys are primarily based on internal adult morphology, substantial variation among species in larval color traits, geographic location, overwintering strategy, host plant, and egg patterns can be diagnostic at the species level. Here, we focus on the Pinaceae-feeding subfamily Diprioninae, of which there are 25 species in eastern North America. We describe the general biology, life cycle, and host-use ecology of Diprioninae, with an emphasis on the variation among these traits within this subfamily. In addition, we provide tools for species identification, including a taxonomic key that utilizes external diagnostic characteristics. Finally, we discuss available management strategies.
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- PAR ID:
- 10435164
- Publisher / Repository:
- Oxford University Press
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Journal of Integrated Pest Management
- Volume:
- 14
- Issue:
- 1
- ISSN:
- 2155-7470
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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