Surprising discovery of an enigmatic geometrid in Croatia: Mirlatiaarcuata, gen. nov., sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)

Zookeys. 2023 Nov 1:1183:99-110. doi: 10.3897/zookeys.1183.110163. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

A new monotypic genus of Geometridae, Mirlatiagen. nov., and a new species, M.arcuatasp. nov., are described from Croatia. Based on external and genitalia characters, the new genus is tentatively placed in the subfamily Larentiinae. However, the new genus takes a highly isolated position by having unique characters of the tympanum and showing an unusually long pectination of female antennae. Genetic analysis of a fragmented DNA barcode (mtDNA; cytochrome c oxidase 1) did not result in a clear assignation to any geometrid subfamily or tribe. Adults, male and female genitalia, and habitat photos of the type locality of the new species are illustrated.

Keywords: Cold-adapted; DNA barcoding; Mediterranean; geometer moths; tympanum.